Solution for Africa Selected for $57.6 Million Solar Projects in Zambia
Solution for Africa Provisionally Wins $57.6 Million in Three Zambia Solar Contracts
French renewable energy company Solution for Africa has been provisionally selected for three solar power contracts in Zambia with a combined value of approximately $57.6 million, marking another step in the country’s efforts to expand renewable energy generation.
The contracts cover the development of solar photovoltaic (PV) projects designed to increase electricity supply and support Zambia’s efforts to diversify its energy mix.
The provisional selection follows a competitive procurement process and remains subject to the completion of the required contractual and regulatory procedures.
Expanding Zambia’s Solar Capacity
The three projects form part of Zambia’s broader strategy to increase renewable energy capacity and reduce its reliance on hydropower, which currently accounts for a significant share of the country’s electricity generation.
Recurring droughts and low water levels have exposed the vulnerability of Zambia’s power system to changing weather conditions, increasing the urgency of developing alternative sources of electricity.
Solar power has emerged as a key component of the country’s response, with Zambia seeking to attract private investment into utility-scale renewable energy projects.
The proposed developments by Solution for Africa could therefore contribute to strengthening electricity supply while supporting the country’s longer-term energy diversification programme.
$57.6 Million Investment
The three contracts have a combined provisional value of approximately $57.6 million, representing a significant investment in Zambia’s renewable energy infrastructure.
The projects are expected to involve the construction and operation of solar PV facilities, adding new generation capacity to the national power system.
The investment also highlights growing interest from international renewable energy developers in Zambia, where rising electricity demand and persistent supply constraints are creating opportunities for new generation projects.
Beyond increasing power generation, solar developments can support economic activity by creating opportunities for local contractors, suppliers and workers during construction and operations.
Strengthening Energy Security
Zambia’s heavy dependence on hydropower has made the country particularly vulnerable to prolonged droughts and reduced water availability.
The resulting power shortages have affected households, businesses and industries, including the mining sector, which is one of the country’s largest electricity consumers.
Expanding solar generation could help reduce this vulnerability by providing an alternative source of electricity, particularly during periods when hydropower output is constrained.
The development of additional renewable capacity is also consistent with Zambia’s efforts to attract private-sector investment and strengthen the resilience of its electricity system.
Although Solution for Africa has been provisionally selected for the three contracts, the awards are not yet final.
The projects must proceed through the remaining contractual, regulatory and financial processes before construction can begin.
If finalised, the developments would strengthen Zambia’s growing solar portfolio and support its efforts to improve electricity security while increasing the contribution of renewable energy to the national grid.
The $57.6 million investment also signals continued momentum in Zambia’s renewable energy market as the country seeks new solutions to meet rising power demand and reduce its exposure to hydrological risks.
