Cabinet Approves Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative to Boost Solar Power Across Zambia
Zambia Launches Presidential Constituency Solar Programme to Generate 312 MW Nationwide
The Zambian Cabinet has approved the creation of the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative and Programme, a landmark project designed to develop 2 MW solar farms in each of the country’s 156 constituencies, resulting in a total installed capacity of 312 MW.
According to Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa, the small-scale solar farms will leverage existing power substations, connection points, and suitable local sites for rapid deployment, ensuring efficient implementation across all constituencies.
Funding and Implementation Strategy
The initiative will be partially funded by the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) in partnership with the private sector. Local councils will oversee implementation, with the generated power sold to ZESCO Limited.
Nicholas Phiri, Permanent Secretary for Technical Services at the Ministry of Local Government, stated that the total project cost is estimated at K4.6 billion, with an initial equity contribution of K2.3 billion already available. This equity includes:
K920 million from CDF loan and disaster relief components
K1.38 billion from ZCCM-IH’s equity contribution
Additional financing will be sourced from financial institutions and commercial banks.
Mobilizing Community and Constituency Contributions
The Ministry plans to mobilize further equity by restructuring the CDF, releasing approximately K826 million. Each constituency is expected to contribute around K5.9 million, with only K603,000 coming from existing community projects.
Objectives and Benefits
The Presidential Constituency Solar Programme aims to:
Provide reliable electricity access to all districts across Zambia
Generate a steady income for participating constituencies through power sales
Strengthen national energy security and promote sustainable renewable energy development
This ambitious initiative positions Zambia to expand its renewable energy footprint, empower local communities, and create a sustainable framework for decentralized solar power generation nationwide.
