Kariba North Bank Extension Power Corporation Limited – KNBEPC to invest $102 million in the construction of a 200 megawatt solar PV plant in Kafungalubala village of Chief Chamuka in Chisamba district, Central Province. The solar plant is expected to supply power to many provinces in the country.
Speaking at a groundbreaking ceremony at Kaungalubala grounds yesterday, Zesco Limited Board Chairman Vickson Ncube said climate change is humanity’s formidable challenge whose effects are evident in our unpredictable weather patterns, impacting food security, electricity generation, and sometimes, even leading to conflicts and disease outbreaks.
He says addressing this issue requires a concerted effort to foster economic and social prosperity not only among nations but also within communities and at the individual level.
Ncube disclosed that the Government under the new dawn administration aims to transform Zambia into a middle-income country by 2031 as it recognizes the critical role of economic drivers, starting with the energy sector.
However, he reiterated that, like many other countries, Zambia’s energy sector faces significant hydrological challenges due to climate change. These challenges impact the country’s ability to provide stable and reliable electricity, which is essential for economic growth.
Ncube says in the wake of climate challenges, the government has prioritized a shift towards a diverse energy mix which is vital for both economic prosperity and ensuring a habitable planet for future generations.
He says the groundbreaking of the 100MW of the 200MW project, which is being developed by ZESCO’s subsidiary Kariba North Bank Extension Power Corporation – KNBEPC is a strategic move away from over-dependence on hydroelectricity and towards a more sustainable, resilient energy future.
And KNBEPC Board Chairperson Eng. Victor Mapani says the beauty of solar energy lies in its rapid deployment capabilities, aligning perfectly with the increasing energy demands of the nation. He discloses that the project is internally funded, highlighting the focus on financial sustainability and independence from overpriced power purchase agreements that have historically burdened the company.
Mapan says the 200MW Solar PV Project is a testament to ZESCO’s commitment to cost optimization, efficiency and a sustainable future. Meanwhile, KNDBE General Manager Boyd Kanchela says it is the Government’s policy to ensure diversification of the energy mix. He says the project intends to contribute to addressing the demand for electricity.
Speaking earlier, project partner Synohydro Zambia Limited Representative Son Ming Ming said the solar power project will be the biggest in Zambia and represents a significant milestone in commitment to sustainable energy.
Central Province Permanent Secretary Milner Mwanakampwe says the decision by ZESCO and KNBEPC to choose the central province for the solar project implementation is a great gesture by the government. He says the percentage of money that the project will generate will remain in Chisamba district.
Chief Chamuka has requested ZESCO AND KNBEPC to ensure that his people directly benefit through offering them jobs. He said it is not all jobs which require one to finish a great 12 but that as long as one is physically fit, there is always something they can do.