Patrick Kangwa Highlights Zambia’s Energy Sector Progress and 10,000MW Power Ambition
Zambia Targets 10,000MW Power Capacity by 2030 as Government Accelerates Energy Sector Reforms
Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa says Zambia is making significant progress in the energy sector through reforms, infrastructure investment and increased private sector participation aimed at supporting economic growth.
Speaking at the 4th Senior Public Service Management Meeting in Lusaka, Mr Kangwa described energy as the “lifeblood of development” and said government policies had helped attract local and foreign investment into the sector.
He highlighted the implementation of the Electricity Open Access Regulations and the launch of the Energy Single Licensing System as major reforms aimed at improving efficiency and encouraging investment.
Mr Kangwa said Zambia currently generates about 3,000MW of electricity, but President Hakainde Hichilema has directed that installed capacity should rise to 10,000MW by 2030.
He cited major energy projects contributing to this target, including the Kafue Gorge Lower Hydropower Station, the Maamba Coal Power Plant expansion, and several solar projects in Chisamba, Itimpi, Kanona and Mansa.
The Cabinet Secretary also said government is advancing regional power interconnectors with Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana and the Democratic Republic of Congo to strengthen electricity trade and energy security.
In the petroleum sector, he noted reforms such as the repurposing of the TAZAMA Pipeline and plans for new regional fuel pipeline projects under public-private partnerships.
Mr Kangwa further urged government institutions to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles as a cost-saving measure and called for greater prudence in public expenditure.
