CEC Chief Owen Silavwe Wins Energy Transformation Leadership Award
CEC’s Owen Silavwe Recognised for Leadership in Zambia’s Renewable Energy Expansion
Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) Group Chief Executive Officer Owen Silavwe has received the Energy Transformation Leadership Award in recognition of his leadership in advancing Zambia’s energy transition and expanding renewable energy capacity.
The award was presented by Zambia’s Vice-President, W.K. Mutale Nalumango, during the official opening of the 2026 Energy Forum for Africa (EFFA) in Lusaka.
CEC Chief Projects Officer Vincent Nyirenda received the award on Silavwe’s behalf.
The recognition reflects CEC’s investment in diversifying Zambia’s electricity mix and reducing dependence on hydropower, which has been vulnerable to drought-related disruptions.
In 2023, CEC commissioned a 34-megawatt (MW) solar power plant as part of its strategy to complement hydroelectric generation with alternative sources of electricity. The group has since expanded its solar portfolio to 242 MW, strengthening its contribution to electricity supply and national energy security.
CEC is also extending its operations and renewable energy investments to other parts of Zambia, with further expansion plans underway.
The award comes as Zambia seeks to strengthen the resilience of its electricity system following drought-related power shortages that exposed the risks of relying heavily on hydropower.
Solar generation and other alternative energy sources are increasingly important to diversifying supply and supporting economic activity.
CEC participated in EFFA 2026 as a sponsor, exhibitor and industry stakeholder. Held from October 7 to 9 at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, the forum was conducted under the theme “Driving a Borderless Energy Future for Africa”.
The event brought together energy-sector stakeholders to discuss regional electricity trade, interconnected power systems and sustainable energy development.
During the opening day, Vice-President Nalumango visited CEC’s exhibition stand and engaged with the company’s representatives on its operations and contribution to Zambia’s energy transition.
The recognition highlights the role of private-sector investment in expanding renewable generation and supporting a more diversified and reliable electricity supply in Zambia.
