Zambia plans to electrify 8.5 million people by 2030 using solar mini-grids, a $1.1 billion initiative supported by the European Union (EU) and World Bank. This effort aims to increase energy access in rural areas, aligning with the EU’s Global Gateway strategy and addressing Zambia’s energy deficit.
Zambia solar electrification through solar mini-grids initiative
Zambia’s Ministry of Energy has announced a major initiative to electrify 8.5 million people in rural areas by 2030, using solar mini-grids. This ambitious project is estimated to cost $1.1 billion and is supported by the European Union (EU) and the World Bank. The goal is to rapidly increase energy access in remote regions across the country. For more detailed insights, you can explore Zambia’s solar electrification plan.
The European Union’s Global Gateway strategy includes a €100 million ($106 million) investment to support the expansion of solar mini-grids in Zambia. The World Bank is contributing €275 million ($293 million) to the same effort. In total, the initiative is expected to cost $1.1 billion, with funding from various development partners, including the World Bank, EU, and USAID.
Expanding Zambia solar electrification in rural areas
Zambia has already made progress in deploying solar mini-grids. The country has installed 65 mini-grids, providing electricity to 73,000 people in rural areas. This includes 47,000 people who have been connected to solar energy in the past year alone. The EU and World Bank’s additional funding will expand this program significantly, making solar mini-grids more accessible to remote communities.
Minister of Energy, Peter Kapala, highlighted the importance of this initiative for Zambia’s rural population. „Over 73,000 people in rural areas are now connected to electricity through these mini-grids. With the EU support, we plan to reach 8.5 million people by 2030,“ Kapala said.
Benefits of Zambia solar electrification via mini-grids
Solar mini-grids offer a range of benefits for Zambia’s rural communities. They provide reliable and clean electricity, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions. In addition, these mini-grids support economic development by enabling small businesses to operate more efficiently and by improving access to essential services such as healthcare and education.
By electrifying 8.5 million people, the project will improve the quality of life for many Zambians. Households will have access to lighting, refrigeration, and communication technologies, while schools and clinics will be able to operate more effectively. For a broader perspective on the benefits, check out how solar mini-grids are transforming lives.
The role of the EU and World Bank in Zambia solar electrification
The EU’s Global Gateway strategy is focused on building sustainable infrastructure and strengthening partnerships around the world. The solar mini-grids project in Zambia is a key component of this strategy. By investing in clean energy, the EU aims to support Zambia’s development goals and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.
The World Bank’s $293 million investment in the project highlights its commitment to improving energy access in developing countries. This funding will help Zambia expand its solar mini-grid network, bringing electricity to more remote communities and supporting the country’s broader electrification goals.
Zambia solar electrification and commitment to renewable energy
The solar mini-grids initiative is part of Zambia’s broader commitment to renewable energy. The country is taking steps to diversify its energy mix and reduce its reliance on hydroelectric power, which has been affected by climate change and droughts in recent years.
Zambia’s National Energy Policy aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix and to provide universal access to electricity by 2030. The solar mini-grids project is a key part of this strategy, offering a scalable and sustainable solution to Zambia’s energy challenges. You can learn more about Zambia’s renewable energy journey here.
Looking ahead: the future of Zambia solar electrification
As Zambia moves forward with its solar mini-grids initiative, the country is setting an example for other nations in Africa and beyond. By investing in clean energy, Zambia is not only improving the lives of its people but also contributing to global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. The $1.1 billion solar mini-grids initiative, supported by the EU and World Bank, represents a significant step forward in Zambia’s efforts to electrify its rural population and achieve its energy goals by 2030.