Works have begun on the remaining 100 megawatt phase of the Chisamba Solar Photovoltaic power plant, marking a key step toward completing the project’s initial 200MW capacity intended to begin supplying solar-generated electricity to the national grid.

The second phase of the Chisamba Solar project is expected to cost approximately US$76 million. Once completed, the development is projected to contribute to addressing the electricity deficit the country has experienced in recent years, particularly during periods of reduced hydropower generation.

Speaking at the official launch of the construction works, Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote said the commencement of the phase two project reflected government’s commitment to stabilising electricity supply and expanding the use of renewable energy sources. He described the start of construction as a signal of progress in efforts to diversify the country’s energy mix.

Chikote called on the local community to play an active role in safeguarding the project during and after construction, noting that community participation was necessary for timely completion and long-term sustainability. He said public cooperation would be critical in protecting infrastructure once the power plant becomes operational.

The Energy Minister further stated that the Chisamba Solar project would benefit citizens across the country, with particular emphasis on employment opportunities for residents of the surrounding area. He said directives had been issued to ensure that people from Chisamba District would be prioritised for jobs created during the construction phase.

According to Chikote, renewable energy projects such as Chisamba were part of a broader programme aimed at strengthening electricity supply and supporting economic activity. He encouraged citizens to embrace the solar developments being implemented as part of the country’s energy transition.

ZESCO Limited managing director Justin Loongo said the power utility was confident the second phase of the Chisamba Solar project would be completed within the planned timeframe. He said ZESCO was committed to ensuring that the project progressed smoothly in order to deliver the expected capacity additions to the grid.

Loongo expressed optimism that the completion of the project would support national development efforts by improving energy availability. He said the project would contribute to job creation and support local communities through economic activity linked to construction and operation of the facility.

PowerChina project manager Tian Hongjun said the contractor would work within Zambian laws and regulations to ensure the successful delivery of the project. He assured government and stakeholders that the company was committed to compliance and cooperation throughout the construction process.

Tian stated that the project would remain open to employment opportunities for local residents and that the contractor would engage with communities in line with agreed standards. He said PowerChina recognised the importance of working closely with ZESCO and government institutions to achieve project objectives.

The Chisamba Solar project forms part of a wider portfolio of energy developments being implemented by ZESCO Limited to address electricity shortages. The power utility has indicated that several projects are underway across the country as part of efforts to expand generation capacity and improve supply reliability.

Once completed, the second phase is expected to bring the total installed capacity at Chisamba to 200MW, positioning the facility as one of the country’s major solar power installations and a contributor to ongoing efforts to reduce dependence on hydropower during periods of low water levels.