The Chisamba 100 MW Solar PV Plant
The Chisamba 100MW Solar PV Plant is a landmark project in Zambia's energy sector, located in Kafungalubala Village in Chisamba District, Central Province.
Key Highlights
- Commissioned: Officially commissioned by the Republican President Mr. Hakainde Hichilema on 30 June 2025, marking a significant milestone in Zambia's energy diversification journey.
- Capacity: The plant has a capacity of 100 megawatts, making it Zambia's largest grid-connected solar initiative to date.
- Investment: The project was developed at a cost of $100 million, financed through a mix of equity and debt, with Stanbic Bank Zambia providing a $71.5 million loan and ZESCO and KNBEPC contributing $30 million each in equity.
- Developer: The project was developed by Kariba North Bank Extension Power Corporation (KNBEPC), a subsidiary of ZESCO Limited, with Power China International Group Limited serving as the engineering, procurement, and construction contractor.
Achievements
- The Kariba North Bank Extension Power Station has fulfilled its main purpose in mitigating the power deficit in the country which was experienced during peak hours.
- The Chisamba 100MW Solar PV Plant is a significant milestone for KNBEPC and the first largest solar plant in Zambia's history.
- The solar plant is the first largest grid-connected solar initiative generating clean energy in Zambia.
- The plant has added 100MW of renewable energy capacity to the grid aimed at reducing load shedding especially during low hydropower seasons.
- The Chisamba 100 MW PV Solar plant has reduced the country's reliance on hydropower, which has been affected by droughts.
- The plant has strengthened Zambia's energy mix, by supporting industrial and domestic power demands, contributing to long-term climate and economic development goals.
- Transferred skills to local youths during construction.
- Created over 1,200 jobs (98% local) during construction, and 100 permanent jobs.