Zambia s 100kW Photovoltaic Convergence Solution

Zambia's 100 MW Chisamba solar PV project is the country's largest single-site solar installation, delivering clean electricity to 150,000 households and strengthening national energy security.

Project Overview

The Chisamba solar farm, located in the Central Province's Chisamba District, represents Zambia's largest grid-connected solar PV facility and one of sub-Saharan Africa's largest outside South Africa . Developed by Zesco's subsidiary Kariba North Bank Extension Power Corporation (KNBEPC) with Power China as the engineering, procurement, and construction contractor, the project covers 106 hectares and includes a 100 MW ground-mounted solar PV station, a 33/132 kV step-up substation, and a 2.7 km double-circuit 132 kV transmission line .

Technical Specifications

• Installed Capacity: 100 MW
• Annual Energy Output: Approximately 180 million kWh, sufficient to power around 150,000 households
• Grid Integration: Connected to Zambia's national transmission system, with a 33/132 kV substation and expanded infrastructure to ensure stable delivery
• Construction Efficiency: 66,000 helical piles installed in 52 days, two main transformers and 20 box transformers tested in 30 days, with the entire project completed in 10 months, 40% faster than comparable projects

Financing and Partnerships

The $100 million project was financed through a combination of equity and loans: Zesco and KNBEPC each contributed $30 million, while Stanbic Bank Zambia provided $71.5 million in loans . A 13-year power purchase agreement with GreenCo Power Services ensures energy delivery to First Quantum Minerals (FQM), with excess electricity redirected to domestic consumers, helping reduce load shedding .

Socio-Economic and Environmental Impact

• Job Creation: Over 1,350 jobs during construction, with 96% local employment and 320 skilled technicians trained
• Community Development: Construction camp converted into a school and clinic; water wells and irrigation support provided for local agriculture
• Environmental Benefits: Expected reduction of approximately 150,000 tons of CO₂ emissions annually, promoting sustainable energy development
• Energy Security: Diversifies Zambia's energy mix, strengthens national energy security, and supports industrial and residential electricity needs

Strategic Significance

The Chisamba project demonstrates Zambia's commitment to renewable energy, positioning the country as a regional leader in solar power deployment. It enhances grid stability, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and provides a scalable model for future solar PV expansions, including planned second-phase developments at the site . In summary, Zambia's 100 MW photovoltaic convergence solution at Chisamba combines high-capacity solar generation, rapid deployment, strong community engagement, and strategic energy planning, making it a landmark project in sub-Saharan Africa's renewable energy landscape.