FQM and Anzana to Develop 50 MW Hydropower Projects in Northern Zambia
First Quantum and Anzana Electric Partner on 50 MW Hydropower Projects to Power Zambia’s North-Western Mines
First Quantum Minerals (FQM) and Anzana Electric Group have announced a strategic partnership to develop new hydropower projects in northern Zambia.
The initiative aims to supply up to 50 megawatts (MW) of reliable baseload electricity by 2030 to support FQM’s mining operations in the country’s North-Western Province.
FQM operates along Zambia’s section of the Lobito Corridor, a strategic trade and mineral development route backed by the United States government and other G7 partners. The collaboration underscores the growing integration of mining expansion and energy infrastructure development in the region.
Grid Integration and Open Access
Anzana recently signed a binding term sheet with Zambia’s state-owned utility Zesco to form a joint venture aimed at expanding the national grid and connecting approximately two million people along the Lobito Corridor to electricity by 2030.
Electricity generated from Anzana’s proposed hydropower facilities will be delivered to FQM through a wheeling arrangement via Zesco’s transmission network.
The structure reflects Zambia’s ongoing electricity market reforms and progress toward open-access frameworks that enable private-sector participation in generation while reinforcing the national grid.
The hydropower plants will be located in northern Zambia, where hydrological conditions are less vulnerable to seasonal variability, supporting consistent year-round generation.
Economic and System Benefits
According to the companies, construction is expected to create around 300 jobs over a three-year period, with more than 30 permanent operational roles once the plants are commissioned. The projects are also expected to build technical skills and capacity within rural communities.
Beyond diversifying FQM’s energy mix, the hydropower developments are projected to enhance overall grid stability, reduce transmission losses and facilitate the integration of additional variable renewable energy projects in the region.
“Secure access to reliable baseload power is essential for mining operations in Zambia,” said FQM Zambia Country Director Anthony Mukutuma. “Accessing new hydropower through the national grid, in coordination with Zesco, supports our long-term energy needs while strengthening the electricity system and Zambia’s broader development agenda.”
Anzana Electric Group CEO Brian Kelly added that the collaboration aligns mining-led growth along the Lobito Corridor with new infrastructure investment. “By adding dependable baseload power in strategic locations and delivering it through the national grid, these projects will benefit FQM, Zesco and electricity users across the country,” he said.
The initiative highlights the increasing role of private capital and public-private partnerships in advancing Zambia’s energy security and supporting long-term mineral sector growth.
