Zambia’s CEC to Commission 136 MW Itimpi II Zambia solar plant by Late March 2026
Zambia’s energy landscape is set for a significant boost with the planned commissioning of the 136 MW Itimpi II Solar Plant by the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) by the end of the first quarter of 2026. This landmark project represents a major step in the nation’s push towards diversifying its energy mix and embracing renewable power sources.
The Itimpi II facility, located in Zambia’s vital Copperbelt Province, is a cornerstone of CEC’s strategy to enhance its generation capacity with clean energy. Once operational, it will become one of the largest solar installations in the country, contributing substantially to the national grid and providing stable power to a region critical for economic activity.
Substantial Progress Confirmed on the Zambia solar plant
According to the Copperbelt Energy Corporation’s 2025 annual and integrated annual reports, the project is well underway. The company has officially documented making “substantial progress” and “substantial headway” in the development of the 136 MW Itimpi II power plant. This official confirmation underscores CEC’s commitment to bringing the project to fruition.
These reports also highlight CEC’s broader renewable energy ambitions, noting parallel progress on the smaller 12 MW Fitula Solar Plant. This dual focus demonstrates a clear and strategic pivot towards a more sustainable and resilient energy portfolio. The progress detailed in these corporate filings provides stakeholders and the public with confidence in the project’s momentum as it moves towards its target completion date.
For more detailed information, you can refer to CEC’s 2025 Annual Report and the 2025 Integrated Annual Report.
Strategic Importance for the National Grid of the Zambia solar plant
The development of the Itimpi II Solar Plant is a strategic move for Zambia, a country that has historically been heavily reliant on hydropower. By adding 136 MW of solar capacity, Zambia can mitigate the risks associated with drought and climate change, which can impact water levels at its major hydroelectric dams.
This diversification is crucial for ensuring a reliable power supply to support industrial growth, particularly in the mining-intensive Copperbelt region. For CEC, a primary supplier of power to the mines, this project not only aligns with global environmental goals but also strengthens its core business by guaranteeing a more stable and self-sufficient energy supply for its key customers.
Looking Ahead to 2026 for the Zambia solar plant
With a target commissioning date of late March 2026, all eyes are on the Copperbelt Energy Corporation as it works to complete the final stages of development and construction. While the 2025 reports confirm the project is advancing significantly, the coming months will be critical for hitting this ambitious target. The successful launch of the Itimpi II Solar Plant will mark a new era for renewable energy in Zambia, paving the way for a cleaner, more secure, and sustainable energy future.
