Zambia has entered into agreements with China in the energy sector to address its energy deficit, which has been worsened by a severe drought.
With increasing demand for electricity and a growing reliance on hydropower, Zambia has faced a significant shortfall in energy production, causing widespread power outages. These outages have negatively impacted industries, agriculture, and the daily lives of Zambians, prompting the government to seek external partnerships to stabilize the country's energy supply.
The Sino-Zambian agreements, signed on the sidelines of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, outline a framework for cooperation in the supply, delivery, and installation of rooftop solar systems in Zambia. This partnership represents a significant step forward in Zambia’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce its dependence on hydropower, which has been vulnerable to fluctuations caused by drought and other climate-related challenges.
This cooperation also includes an engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) agreement for the Kariba North solar photovoltaic project and an agreement for the Kafue Gorge Lower solar photovoltaic power plant. Both projects are seen as crucial in the government’s plans to expand renewable energy infrastructure. The Kariba North project is expected to generate a substantial amount of electricity to help close the gap caused by the decline in hydroelectric output, while the Kafue Gorge Lower project aims to bolster Zambia’s overall energy resilience.
These projects, considered a pivotal step in diversifying Zambia's energy sources, are expected to significantly reduce the country's energy deficit. Experts believe that incorporating solar power will not only help Zambia meet its current energy needs but also allow the country to develop a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future. By shifting towards solar energy, Zambia can mitigate the impact of future droughts and contribute to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
"We are fully aware of the negative impacts of energy insecurity on our economy, which is why we are determined to find a sustainable solution,” said Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema. He noted that the current drought has further exposed Zambia’s vulnerability due to its reliance on hydropower and has had a ripple effect on the national economy and the livelihoods of the most vulnerable populations. With major industries operating at reduced capacity and rural communities struggling to access reliable energy, the need for alternative energy sources has become urgent.
The drought has not only strained Zambia's power generation capacity but also led to significant economic losses, especially in the agriculture sector, which is heavily dependent on electricity for irrigation. Small and medium-sized enterprises have also suffered from frequent blackouts, affecting production and employment rates. By investing in solar energy, Zambia is not only seeking to stabilize its power grid but also to ensure that businesses and households have a reliable energy supply that can drive economic growth and improve living standards.
Diversifying the country's energy mix, reducing dependence on hydropower, and adopting solar energy are crucial steps toward building a resilient energy sector, Hakainde Hichilema also emphasized. The government has set ambitious targets to increase the share of renewable energy in the national grid, with solar power being a key component of these efforts. This transition is part of Zambia's broader strategy to create a more sustainable energy infrastructure, one that can withstand the impacts of climate change and support the country's long-term development goals.
As Zambia continues to invest in renewable energy, the country’s leadership in this sector is being recognized on the African continent and beyond. The partnership with China, known for its expertise in solar energy technology, marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s journey towards energy security. With these projects, Zambia is positioning itself as a model for other African nations facing similar energy challenges, demonstrating that sustainable energy solutions are within reach.