ZESCO has announced it will soon add about 500 megawatts of electricity to the national power grid using solar energy. This is to help reduce Zambia’s electricity shortage, which has been made worse by low water levels affecting hydroelectric power.
Out of the 500 megawatts, 134 megawatts will be added in the next three months. ZESCO Managing Director, Justin Longo, said this solar plan is part of efforts to fix the power problem.
Mr. Longo listed some of the projects that will supply the new solar power:
- 100 MW from Chisamba
- 25 MW from Mansa
- 7.5 MW from Kasupe
- 2 MW from Shangombo
Other sources include:
- 270 MW from the Micro Generator Scheme
- 62 MW from the Presidential Solar Initiative
Speaking on behalf of Mr. Longo at the Third National Students and Youth Parliament in Lusaka, ZESCO’s Given Monde also spoke about new technologies like net metering, smart grids, and mini-grids. These will help improve how energy is managed and shared across the country.
Mr. Longo said young people are key to Zambia’s energy future. “ZESCO believes that the country’s energy future will be shaped by young, creative, and skilled people,” he said. ZESCO supports youth programs like the 2025 National Students and Youth Parliament.
National Council of Students Union Chairperson, Michelo Chizombe, said the Youth Parliament gives young leaders from all provinces a chance to talk about important issues like energy and leadership. He encouraged youth to prepare for leadership by learning, growing their skills, and getting involved in national matters.
