Zambia opens 100 MW Chisamba solar project to supply copper mines

The continent of Africa is an untapped resource for the energy industry, in particular the renewable energy sector. Zambia has announced that it has opened a massive 100 MW Chisamba solar project that aims to develop the nation’s energy self-sufficiency as well as supply the copper mine industry. For decades, the African continent has lagged behind the global energy sector in adopting new and inventive projects that enable the region to raise its game in the energy sector and compete with the biggest energy-producing nations in the world.

Zambia aims to become a leader in the solar power sector across the African continent

For far too long, the nations of Africa have relied on outside energy generation to meet their needs, while the existing infrastructure has lagged due to a lack of substantial investment. Zambia is seeking to change all that by opening a huge solar project, thereby establishing itself as a major player in the region.

News coming out of the once-troubled nation is that in June of this year, President Hakainde Hichilema unveiled the landmark facility, which is now the country’s largest grid‑connected solar plant. The commissioning of the site represents Zambia’s determination to diversify energy sources, which could protect industries from climate risks and uplift communities through clean development.

The plant spans over 250 hectares and features more than 250,000 photovoltaic panels equipped with anti-soiling coatings. The innovative single-axis tracking systems align with the sun’s position to deliver a boost to daily output by up to 18%. Several industry insiders have praised the move by the Zambian government.

“By championing solar energy solutions, we’re addressing pressing energy needs, driving economic growth, and ensuring a brighter, greener future for all.” – Solar Power Africa

The commissioning of the 100 MW Chisamba solar project has boosted the local economy

Zambia has, for the past few decades, relied heavily on the hydropower sector. But exceedingly long periods of drought have forced factories to idle, schools to cut evening classes, and mines to scale down output. This has led to the Zambian government shifting the national narrative to the solar power sector.

The success of the project lies in forward-looking policy frameworks, like the Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariff (REFiT) Policy, which offers predictable tariffs and streamlined licensing in the nation.

The reformative nature of the project aligns perfectly with the African Union Agenda 2063, which calls for energy access and sustainability in the African continent. This shift enables outside investors to safely consider entering the African energy market.

The evidence suggests that solar power’s standing in the energy sector is on the rise, with nations in Europe aiming to bring online hybrid solar and wind projects in the near future.

“The provision of solar energy systems in remote areas brings sustainable energy access to underserved populations, improving their quality of life, empowering communities, and supporting economic development” – GC Solar

The Zambian Ministry of Energy has simplified the nation’s regulatory procedures

By simplifying the regulatory procedures, the Zambian government is attracting outside investment that has the potential to revolutionize the energy sector in the region. As the growth in the solar power sector is on the rise, several nations that have a high demand for energy resources are adding substantial solar power capacity to their grids. Africa has, for far too long, relied on unpredictable energy generation projects that have devastated the local economy’s ability to deliver reliable employment to locals while keeping the business interests of the nation at the forefront of conversations. Zambia is a relatively small nation, and as such, requires innovative solutions to meet its energy needs. Solar power represents the best chance for Zambia to establish a level of self-sufficiency.