Zambia Launches 20 MW NRDC Zambia solar project to Boost Energy Security
Zambia has taken a significant step toward strengthening its national grid and mitigating chronic power shortages with the official launch of a 20-megawatt (MW) solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant. Developed by the state-owned North-Western Railway Development Corporation (NRDC), this project marks a crucial move in the nation’s strategy to diversify its energy mix and enhance its energy security.
Commissioned in December 2025, the solar facility is a direct response to the challenges posed by Zambia’s heavy reliance on hydropower, which has been severely impacted by recurring droughts.
Project at a Glance: The Zambia solar project
Located near Solwezi in the North-Western Province, the plant is strategically positioned to support the region’s development, particularly its vital copper mining industry. The project, which broke ground in early 2024, moved from construction to commissioning in under 18 months, demonstrating the potential for rapid deployment of solar infrastructure.
Key Project Details:
- Capacity: 20 MW AC (approximately 28 MW DC), connecting to the national grid via a 33 kV line to feed into the ZESCO network.
- Developer: North-Western Railway Development Corporation (NRDC).
- Construction: Handled by PowerChina in collaboration with local contractors.
- Investment: The project represents an investment of around $25-30 million, financed through a combination of domestic resources and partnerships.
- Technology: To maximize energy generation in Zambia’s high-irradiance climate, the plant utilizes efficient monocrystalline PV modules and single-axis trackers.
The facility is expected to be fully operational in the first quarter of 2026, with a projected annual output of 40-45 gigawatt-hours (GWh). This is enough electricity to power approximately 30,000 Zambian households and will offset an estimated 25,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
A Strategic Move Away from Hydropower Dependency with Zambia solar project
Zambia’s energy sector has long been dominated by hydropower, which accounts for about 85% of its electricity supply. This dependency has made the country’s economy vulnerable to climate change, with fluctuating water levels at the Kariba Dam leading to frequent and debilitating load-shedding. The power blackouts of 2024-2025 alone were estimated to have cost the economy over $1 billion.
The NRDC solar project provides a much-needed alternative power source that is not dependent on rainfall. By injecting clean energy into the grid, it helps stabilize the power supply, reduce the frequency of outages, and support sustained industrial and economic activity.
A Key Component of a National Vision: The Zambia solar project
This 20 MW plant is not an isolated initiative but a cornerstone of Zambia’s broader ambition for a sustainable energy future. It aligns directly with the country’s Scaled-Up Renewable Energy Program (SREP), which aims to install 500 MW of solar capacity by 2030. Furthermore, the project supports the goals laid out in the 7th National Development Plan, contributing to the national target of achieving a 26% renewable energy mix by 2030.
Beyond its energy contributions, the project has already delivered tangible economic benefits, creating over 200 local jobs during its construction phase.
Looking Ahead for the Zambia solar project
The successful launch of the NRDC solar plant is a pragmatic victory for Zambia. It showcases a commitment to leveraging the nation’s abundant solar resources to build a more resilient and self-sufficient energy system. With discussions already underway for a potential expansion of the site to 50 MW, this project serves as a powerful model for future renewable energy developments set to power Zambia’s growth.
