ZESCO Limited is accelerating its expansion into solar energy through a landmark Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to develop the Mailo Solar Power Plant. This initiative is a critical component of the Scaling Solar program, underscoring Zambia’s commitment to a diversified and sustainable energy future.
ZESCO’s Mailo Solar Plant: A Key Zambia solar project
ZESCO Limited, Zambia’s national electricity utility, is making substantial strides in its solar energy ambitions. The company has partnered with Solarcentury Africa on the ambitious Mailo Solar PV Power Plant, a 100 MWp project located in the Serenje District. This venture is a prime example of the Scaling Solar program, which receives backing from the World Bank Group.
The Mailo Solar project showcases the power of effective public-private collaboration. This partnership model is crucial for mobilizing private capital and efficiently managing project risks, with ZESCO providing essential regulatory support and grid access. Demonstrating remarkable efficiency, the project has already connected an initial 25 MW to the national grid in under 18 months from financial close, with an additional 35 MW currently under development.
The project involves the construction of a large-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) plant. For those interested in the technology, the basics of solar panel manufacturing provide insight into how these powerful assets are created. Once fully operational, the power generated will be integrated into the national grid, significantly contributing to meeting Zambia’s growing demand for clean and reliable energy.
Scaling Solar Initiative: Powering the Zambia solar project
The Mailo Solar Plant is a cornerstone of Zambia’s wider Scaling Solar initiative. This program, supported by international partners like the World Bank, International Finance Corporation (IFC), and African Development Bank (AfDB), is designed to rapidly increase the country’s solar generation capacity.
ZESCO’s deep involvement reflects a strategic pivot to diversify Zambia’s energy mix. This move aims to lessen the nation’s heavy reliance on hydroelectric power, which has become vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, leading to fluctuating water levels and regional power disruptions. The goal is ambitious and clear: ZESCO aims to achieve 1,000 MW of solar capacity by 2026 to counter these hydropower shortfalls.
The Scaling Solar program builds on previous successes, including the 47.5 MW Bangweulu and 34 MW Ngonye solar plants, which have paved the way for larger developments. These projects, covered in the Zambia Solar News Archives, highlight the effectiveness of the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) model, similar to the one that underpins another impressive 54 MW facility in the country.
The Mailo project is set to deliver significant benefits, enhancing the national grid’s capacity for a more stable power supply. It also aligns perfectly with Zambia’s goals for reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable development, ultimately moving the nation toward greater energy independence and resilience against external market shocks.
ZESCO’s Future Plans: Expanding the Zambia solar project
The Mailo Solar Plant is more than just a single project; it’s a key milestone in ZESCO’s comprehensive strategy to become a leader in Zambia’s renewable energy sector. This vision extends beyond power generation to include social and economic development.
This energy transformation directly supports Zambia’s “Mission 300,” a national initiative aiming to add 300,000 new electricity connections annually to achieve universal access by 2030. ZESCO is actively collaborating with the government and private sector, using blended finance and incentives to de-risk rural electrification. A notable example is a $300 million joint venture with Azana Electric Group to bring power to two million people along the Lobito Corridor.
As Zambia taps into solar potential, a wave of investment is following. Beyond the Mailo project, other significant developments are underway, such as an impressive 50 MW plant deal signed for a facility in Kafue and major land acquisitions by developers like Century Solar Africa for future projects.
This concerted effort, backed by international partners and driven by ZESCO’s commitment, is set to make a lasting impact on the country’s energy landscape. As the world shifts towards renewables, Zambia is firmly positioning itself as a leader in solar power, building a sustainable and resilient energy future for all its citizens.
For those inspired by Zambia’s solar revolution and curious about the technology behind it, explore our free e-course to learn more about the world of solar energy.