Government has commended the public for complementing its efforts to reduce the country’s dependence on hydropower.
Speaking during an interview with ZANIS, Ministry of Energy Principal Public Relations Officer, Bob Sianjalika, said the ministry has recorded an increase of Independence Power Producers and Independence Power Traders, which has increased the solar electricity generation.
Mr Sianjalika disclosed that the ministry is still receiving applications from individuals and groups showing interest in being in the Independence Power Producer chain, while others have power purchase agreements with ZESCO.
He further highlighted that the energy sector is now at 4,700 megawatts of collective generation across the country, giving them an assurance of meeting the target of 10,000 megawatts by 2026.
Mr Sianjalika added that about 2,600 megawatts of electricity is expected to be generated from thermal and solar plants alone, from the community.
He also disclosed that the government will be commissioning three solar power plants in three areas before the end of the year.
“We will be commissioning one in Shimabala generating 100 megawatts, one in Chipata generating 100 and the other one in Mumbwa with120 megawatts” he added.
Mr Sianjalika has described the current electricity generation state as comfortable if compared to the 2021 state.
He also revealed that the government intends to generate 1,000 megawatts of electricity before the end of the year 2026.
He has urged Zambians and foreign investors to invest in Zambia’s growing energy sector.
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