Written By: Faith Jemosop
Zambia’s approval of the Kalumbila-Kolwezi (KKIP) transmission line is a major milestone in regional energy cooperation and infrastructure development. The $270 million project, set to connect Zambia’s copper rich North Western province to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), represents a significant step toward addressing energy challenges and fostering economic growth in both countries
Project Overview
The Kalumbila-Kolwezi transmission line will span approximately 190–200 km, with a thermal capacity of 700 MW. The line will connect Kolwezi in DRC’s Lualaba province to the ZESCO substation at First Quantum Minerals’ Sentinel mine in Kalumbila, Zambia. The project will be a 330 kV high-voltage interconnector, allowing for a substantial exchange of electricity between the two countries.
Construction is already underway, with the project expected to be fully operational within 24–30 months, with an expected completion date around mid-2027.
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The project is being led by Enterprise Power DRC (EPDRC) and Enterprise Power Zambia Ltd, with financing provided through a private sector initiative. This marks the first privately developed cross border transmission line in Sub-Saharan Africa, setting a precedent for future regional infrastructure projects.
Strategic and Technical Importance
Energy Security and Regional Integration: The Kalumbila-Kolwezi transmission line will enhance regional electricity trade and foster energy security by linking Zambia’s and DRC’s power grids. The project is aligned with the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) objectives, promoting energy cooperation and facilitating greater integration of electricity markets in Southern Africa.
Mining Sector Support: Zambia’s mining industry, particularly in the North-Western province, has faced power shortages in recent years due to erratic rainfall affecting hydropower generation. The Kalumbila-Kolwezi interconnector will provide a reliable electricity supply to support mining activities and ensure the stability of operations. This is especially important for Zambia’s largest mines, such as those operated by First Quantum Minerals, which are highly dependent on consistent power availability.
Renewable Energy Integration: The transmission line will also enhance the integration of renewable energy sources in the region. By allowing for the exchange of electricity, the project could facilitate up to 1,200 MW of additional renewable energy investments, helping to diversify the energy mix and reduce dependence on hydroelectric power, which is vulnerable to climate variability.
Economic and Social Impact
Energy Diversification: The interconnector will help reduce Zambia and DRC’s reliance on hydroelectric power, mitigating the risks posed by climate change, such as droughts, which often result in reduced hydropower generation. This diversification is vital for ensuring stable and reliable energy supplies for both countries.
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Economic Growth and Industrial Development: The KKIP is expected to have a significant positive impact on both countries’ economies. By improving the reliability of electricity supply, it will stimulate industrial growth, particularly in the mining sector, which is a key driver of economic activity in Zambia and DRC. The project also aligns with broader efforts to expand access to electricity in rural areas, promoting overall development.
Community Empowerment: Enterprise Power has committed to community development initiatives in the project’s host regions. These include education, water access, and electrification projects aimed at improving the quality of life for local populations. Additionally, the project will adhere to a 20% local content policy, which will create employment opportunities and skills development for communities along the transmission route.
Zambia is working on several other energy projects, including the development of solar and battery energy storage systems. These projects aim to diversify Zambia’s energy mix, reduce reliance on hydropower, and improve grid stability, particularly during times of drought.
