Zambia Eyes Solar and Thermal Energy to Meet Power Demand




By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia  - (28-12-2024) - The Ministry of Energy has called for increased investment in solar and thermal power to address Zambia’s growing electricity deficit and ensure energy security.

According to a statement issued by Bob Sianjalika, Principal Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Permanent Secretary Peter Mumba assured investors of government support during a meeting with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), which plans to construct two solar plants in Nalolo and Lukulu districts. The projects are expected to produce a combined 600 megawatts of electricity.




Mr. Mumba revealed that Zambia currently generates 1,030 megawatts of power against a national demand of over 2,500 megawatts. He noted that Maamba Coal Mine contributes 300 megawatts to the national grid, with an additional 300 megawatts anticipated by June 2027 upon completion of a thermal power plant.

The Permanent Secretary commended CCECC for its investment in renewable energy and its interest in diversifying Zambia’s energy mix by exploring thermal power opportunities.

CCECC Managing Director Jacques Lias highlighted the company’s broader plans, including a $1.4 billion modernization project for the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA). These upgrades aim to enhance cargo capacity and improve rail transportation efficiency.




The Ministry of Energy reiterated its commitment to supporting investments that address the country’s power deficit and promote sustainable development.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

A Brother, A Leader, A Lesson

Image
 Bishop Mwamba’s Tribute to Lungu Lusaka, Zambia24, Thursday, June 5, 2025 – United National Independence Party (UNIP) President Bishop Trevor Mwamba has paid tribute to the late Sixth Republican President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, describing him as a man of the people, a personal friend, and a national figure whose life and leadership offer Zambia both memory and lesson. In a statement delivered Thursday, Bishop Mwamba extended condolences to the Lungu family, the Patriotic Front, and the entire nation, while encouraging citizens to reflect not only on the man Lungu was, but on the legacy he leaves behind. “I, Bishop Trevor Mwamba, extend my sincere sympathies to the Lungu family, the Patriotic Front, and the Zambian people on the passing of His Excellency Edgar Chagwa Lungu,” he said.  “As President of UNIP, I also convey our party’s deep condolences at this moment of national loss.” Recalling Lungu as his former classmate, Mwamba spoke warmly of the former president’s personal qualities—h...
Read more

UNZA Unions set to hold strike ballot after failed conciliation talks

Image
Pumulo ... The University of Zambia Professional Staff Union (UNZAPROSU), UNZALARU, and UNZAWU are proceeding with a strike ballot after months of unproductive negotiations, citing unresolved issues related to compensation, working conditions, and a severe funding shortfall affecting the university's operations. By Francis Maingaila ♥️ Lusaka, Zambia24 - (6-11-2024) -  The three major unions at the University of Zambia (UNZA) have announced that they will conduct a strike ballot next week after prolonged efforts to negotiate an agreement through a formal conciliation process failed to yield results. Likezo Pumulo, President of the University of Zambia Professional Staff Union (UNZAPROSU), addressed the media on behalf of UNZAPROSU, the University of Zambia Lecturers' and Researchers' Union (UNZALARU), and the University of Zambia and Allied Workers Union (UNZAWU). Pumulo explained that the decision to hold a strike ballot follows several months of intense discussions involv...
Read more

Breaking Silence, Saving Lives

Image
Journalists Join Safe Motherhood Fight and are challenging taboos to protect women’s health. By Francis Maingaila Lusaka, Zambia24 — (20-05-2025) - The Ministry of Health convened a critical media orientation in Lusaka to commemorate Safe Motherhood Week and the International Day to End Obstetric Fistula, emphasizing renewed efforts to improve maternal health outcomes across Zambia. The event brought together media professionals, health experts, and key stakeholders to amplify messages on safe maternal health services and the urgent need to end obstetric fistula. In his keynote address, Dr. Aspha S. Choonga stressed the pivotal role of the media in advocating for women’s rights to safe, dignified, and respectful maternal health care. “Your presence here today is not just appreciated—it is vital,” Dr. Choonga said, urging media practitioners to break taboos and inform the public on these critical issues. He outlined the four pillars of Safe Motherhood: family planning, antenatal care, c...
Read more