Energy Shift Begins

New policies and solar investments mark a national transition from crisis to clean power

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24  - (August 7, 2025) - Zambia has launched the 2025 Energy Week Exhibitions in Mongu with renewed focus on clean energy reforms, diversification, and sustainable infrastructure development.

The event, held under the theme “Advancing Towards a Sustainable Energy Future”, was officiated by Western Province Minister Kapelwa Mbangweta, MP, on behalf of Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote, MP.

According to a joint statement issued by Bob Sianjalika of the Ministry of Energy and Mwakoi Njekwa of the Western Province Administration, the exhibitions aim to promote clean energy technologies and increase awareness of ongoing reforms.

“These exhibitions come at a time when Zambia is implementing critical reforms and infrastructure projects to ensure long-term energy security,” Mbangweta said.

The statement highlights key energy sector reforms, including net metering, which allows solar users to feed excess power into the national grid for financial credit. ZESCO is installing 1,000 systems free of charge under a promotional campaign. 

Other reforms include the Open Access Framework, which enables independent power producers to supply electricity directly to end-users, and the Single Licensing System, which simplifies regulatory processes for energy projects.

“These reforms are yielding results. The 100 MW Chisamba Solar Plant has been commissioned—marking a major step in our clean energy transition,” Mbangweta said. 

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to meet the target of 1,000 MW of solar energy by December 2025.

The statement also highlighted progress in Western Province, where the administration is advancing solar energy adoption in health and education facilities. 

A 24 kVA rooftop solar system was recently installed at Kaoma District Hospital using the Constituency Development Fund. 

Private sector participation is also growing, with the 32 MW Ilute Solar Power Plant in Sesheke currently under development.

On the petroleum front, the TAZAMA Pipeline has been converted to transport finished diesel, improving supply and stabilizing prices. 

A feasibility study is underway to expand the pipeline into a multi-product corridor, positioning Zambia as a regional hub for refined fuel distribution.

The government is also promoting clean cooking solutions, including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and improved biomass stoves, to reduce deforestation and protect public health in rural areas. 

Energy awareness campaigns have been extended to schools and colleges in the province, educating youth on renewable energy and career opportunities in the sector.

Mbangweta urged the private sector to continue innovating and expanding access to affordable energy for low-income and rural households. 

He also thanked key partners supporting the 2025 Energy Week, including the European Union’s ZEEST Project, International Labour Organization, Energy Regulation Board, and Lloyds Financials.

“The story of Zambia’s energy sector in 2025 is one of reform and momentum. We are moving from policy to implementation— from challenges to solutions,” the statement concluded.

The Energy Week exhibitions will continue throughout the week, featuring demonstrations, stakeholder forums, and public education sessions on sustainable energy technologies.