The Ministry of Energy has announced a big plan to add 1,000 MW to the national electricity grid by December 2025. This will be done through a combination of hydro, solar, and thermal energy projects.
During the 59th Zambia International Trade Fair in Ndola, Arnold Simwaba, the Permanent Secretary for Electricity at the Ministry of Energy, mentioned that the government has started several important energy projects to tackle the country’s power shortage and improve energy reliability.
“These projects, which are at different stages of development, show the government’s dedication to sustainable energy solutions and ensuring a reliable power supply,” Simwaba stated.
He pointed out that these varied projects which include solar, hydro, and thermal energy are a planned effort to reduce Zambia’s heavy dependence on hydropower, which can be affected by climate changes.
He also mentioned that some of these projects should be up and running before the end of 2025.
Simwaba emphasized the need to include solar and wind energy in the country’s energy mix to ensure long-term energy stability and reduce climate risks.
Besides the power generation projects, Simwaba revealed that the government is working on plans to build a second petroleum pipeline from Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.
This new pipeline will focus on transporting petrol, unlike the current one that only carries diesel.
“This change will not only lower the costs and risks of transporting petrol by road but will also improve fuel security and protect our road infrastructure,” he explained.
He also mentioned that using the Tazama Open Access Framework will encourage competition in the market, which will help lower petrol prices in the country.
