Zambia Boosts Renewable Energy with New 33 MW Riverside Solar Plant

Zambia is making big progress in renewable energy with the opening of the Riverside Solar Plant in Kitwe.

Developed by the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC), this 33-megawatt solar plant represents a $22 million investment.

Attended by President Hakainde Hichilema, the plant’s inauguration marks an important step for Zambia as it works to diversify its energy sources and lessen its reliance on hydroelectric power, which still makes up over 81% of the nation’s electricity.

The Riverside Solar Plant has more than 61,300 solar panels and is expected to generate around 54.9 gigawatt-hours of electricity annually.

The output is enough to power about 10,000 homes, helping a country that has faced frequent power shortages and load shedding due to low water levels affecting hydroelectric power.

The project not only supports energy security but also created over 800 jobs during construction.

This development aligns with Zambia’s commitment to providing clean, affordable energy for all citizens.

Zambia’s energy sector has faced major challenges, especially during droughts that severely impact hydroelectric generation.

The government is responding to these challenges by investing in alternative energy sources.

The Riverside Solar Plant is part of a broader strategy to increase the country’s electricity generation and reduce energy poverty, especially in rural areas where access to reliable electricity is limited.

The government has set ambitious goals to double Zambia’s electricity capacity by 2030, aiming to reach 6,000 megawatts.

This goal is important not only for improving living standards but also for driving economic growth.

Energy Minister Peter Kapala highlighted that opening the solar plant is a major step in Zambia’s energy sector, showing the government’s commitment to growing renewable energy.

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Investing in solar power reflects a growing understanding of how renewable energy can benefit Zambia’s economy.

With between 2,000 and 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, Zambia is well-positioned to reduce its dependence on hydropower and lessen the risks tied to climate change.

Establishing solar facilities like Riverside will provide needed energy solutions and support long-term sustainability.

CEC also plans to continue investing in renewable energy projects across Zambia.

The company has announced a new 64-megawatt solar plant in Itimpi, expected to be operational by the end of 2023. Additionally, CEC is looking into opportunities for wind power, working with local partners.

Projects like Riverside are essential for tackling energy poverty in Zambia, where about 69% of the population lacks sufficient access to electricity, especially in rural areas, where 96% of people are without power.

Expanding solar energy will help make reliable electricity more accessible, improving quality of life and creating economic opportunities.

The Riverside Solar Plant marks an important milestone for Zambia’s energy future, showing the potential for renewable energy to reshape the country’s power supply and economy.

As Zambia keeps embracing solar power and diversifying its energy sources, it sets a model for other nations facing similar energy challenges, supporting sustainable development and energy security.