Zambia Commissions 15 New Solar Mini-Grids in Chadiza to Expand Rural Energy Access
Zambia Launches 15 Solar Mini-Grids in Chadiza District, Boosting Clean Energy Access in Rural Communities
The Government of the Republic of Zambia has commissioned 15 new solar mini-grids in Chadiza District, Eastern Province, marking a significant milestone in expanding access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy for rural communities.
The commissioning ceremony took place in Kumadzi Community, where Eastern Province Minister Peter Phiri delivered a keynote address on behalf of the Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote.
With a combined generation capacity of 1,050 kilowatt peak (kWp), the mini-grids were developed by Ignite Energy Services, with financial support from the European Union (EU) under the Increased Access to Electricity and Renewable Energy Production (IAEREP) project.
This represents the second phase of the programme, following the commissioning of the first 15 mini-grids last year.
Once all 60 project sites are completed, the systems are expected to supply electricity to approximately 8,088 structures, including households, public facilities, and small businesses. The initiative aims to improve rural livelihoods, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance access to essential public services.
Minister Phiri also highlighted that an additional 54 solar off-grid systems will be deployed nationwide by ENGIE, OnePower, and World Vision, bringing the total number of EU-supported installations to 92.
Minister Chikote praised the European Union for its enduring partnership with Zambia, noting the €25 million grant dedicated to rural electrification and renewable energy expansion.
“This support reflects a strong and enduring partnership between Zambia and the European Union, spanning more than 50 years,” he said.
He reiterated the Government’s commitment to reducing the energy access gap, which currently stands at 34% in rural areas compared to 80.3% in urban communities. The Minister also emphasized that the New Dawn Administration has significantly increased budgetary allocations to rural electrification.
“Government will continue to invest in rural electrification and create a conducive environment that attracts private sector participation as we pursue universal electricity access by 2030,” he added.
The Minister thanked all institutions involved in the project, including the National Authorising Office under the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, the Rural Electrification Authority, traditional leaders, implementing partners, and private sector stakeholders.
He urged Kumadzi residents to safeguard the new infrastructure and utilize electricity to support income-generating activities, ensuring that the mini-grids deliver lasting economic and social benefits to the community.
