Zambia Expands Solar Energy Capacity

Leopards Hill Solar and Battery Project Commissioned to Strengthen National Power Supply and Reduce Hydropower Dependence

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia (22 April 2026) — Zambia has taken a major step in diversifying its electricity generation mix with the commissioning of the Leopards Hill Solar and Battery Storage Project, a landmark development that significantly expands the country’s solar energy capacity and reduces reliance on hydropower.

President Hakainde Hichilema officially launched the project developed by Globeleq near Lusaka, which is currently the country’s largest hybrid renewable energy facility combining a 250 MWp solar photovoltaic plant with a 150 MW/600 MWh battery energy storage system designed to improve grid stability, meet peak demand, and strengthen overall reliability of electricity supply.

Once fully operational, the project is expected to generate electricity equivalent to the annual consumption of about 150,000 households. It will also help stabilise voltage and frequency on the national grid, which has faced pressure during periods of low water levels in hydropower dams.

The development is being implemented in partnership with Leopard Investment Company and is located about 25 kilometres southeast of Lusaka on land already hosting key national energy infrastructure. It is also expected to create employment opportunities during both construction and operational phases.

Financial close for the project is expected by the end of 2026. Globeleq, backed by British International Investment and Norfund, says it is expanding its renewable energy investments in Zambia and across Southern Africa as part of a wider regional shift toward clean energy.

Speaking at the commissioning event, President Hichilema said the project reflects government efforts to expand solar energy capacity as part of a broader strategy to strengthen electricity supply, support industrialisation, and reduce overdependence on hydropower.

He reaffirmed Zambia’s long-term development agenda, stressing that increased energy generation and sustained reforms are central to economic transformation.

Mr Hichilema outlined the government’s “10-10-5-3-1-1” development framework, targeting 10,000 megawatts of electricity generation, 10 million tonnes of maize production, 5 million tourists, and copper output of 3 million tonnes, among other goals.

He said energy remains the backbone of these ambitions, noting that mining, agriculture, and tourism all depend on stable and reliable electricity.

The President described the Leopards Hill project as a strategic investment adding 250 megawatts of generation capacity, supported by a 150-megawatt battery system capable of storing up to 600 megawatt-hours of power for use during peak demand.

Mr Hichilema also highlighted Zambia’s heavy reliance on hydropower, which accounts for more than 80 percent of electricity generation, warning that climate change and falling water levels have exposed the country to supply risks.

He said the new investment reflects government efforts to diversify the energy mix through solar and other renewable sources.

The Head of State further underscored the importance of infrastructure such as substations, describing them as critical national assets that ensure grid stability.

He commended surrounding communities for supporting the project, saying community cooperation is essential in protecting investments and ensuring long-term benefits.

Mr Hichilema also credited recent policy reforms for opening up the energy sector to independent power producers, making it more attractive to private investment.

He called on both local and international investors to take advantage of the improved business environment and urged citizens to actively participate in national development.

Globeleq Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Hoffman said Zambia’s ambition to scale up copper production to 3 million tonnes annually depends on reliable electricity supply to support industrial expansion.

He said the Leopards Hill project strengthens Zambia’s power system while increasing opportunities for private sector participation in electricity generation.

He noted that nearly 10 gigawatts of reliable electricity will be required to sustain long-term industrial growth, particularly in mining and manufacturing.

Hoffman added that battery storage will ensure stable and dispatchable electricity supply for industry, and confirmed strong collaboration with ZESCO as a key milestone in project delivery.

He also revealed plans for additional solar and wind energy investments in Zambia, including new projects in Kafue and large-scale wind developments in the pipeline.

British High Commissioner to Zambia Rebecca Terzeon said the project marks a major step in strengthening energy security and supporting economic growth.

She said it reflects strong cooperation between government and international partners in advancing clean energy and reducing reliance on hydropower.

She noted that continued reforms are needed to further improve efficiency and attract investment into the sector.

Acting Energy Minister Rodney Sikumba said the project demonstrates growing investor confidence in Zambia’s energy reforms and supports efforts to diversify power generation.

He said increased electricity supply is essential for sectors such as mining and agriculture, which drive national growth.

Leopard Investment Company Chairman Carl Irwin said the project had been in development for over 10 years but has now become viable due to government reforms that improved bankability in the energy sector.

He said the facility will significantly contribute to national power supply and called electricity fundamental to economic development.

Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata described the project as a major milestone for both the province and the country, saying it will help reduce load shedding and create jobs.

Silvia Masebo said the project is expected to improve electricity access in Chongwe and transform local livelihoods within the next two years.

The Leopards Hill Solar and Battery Project is part of Zambia’s broader push to expand solar energy capacity, strengthen energy security, and build a more resilient and diversified power system.