Chipata West Solar Plant at 52pc completion

By BARNABAS ZULU

THE 100-megawatt Chipata West Solar Power Plant in Eastern Province has reached 52 percent completion, with Zesco saying the project will significantly boost electricity supply and strengthen the country's energy security once commissioned.

Speaking during a tour of the project site on Tuesday, Zesco Chief Operations Officer Fitzpatrick Kapepe said the solar power plant's projected output of 100MW would more than double the region's current electricity demand of about 44MW.

Mr Kapepe said the project would help stabilise power supply in the province and reduce reliance on hydropower, which has often been affected by low water levels during drought periods.

"The project demonstrates Government's commitment to investing in sustainable energy solutions that support economic growth and national development," he said.

Mr Kapepe added that the solar plant had created employment for about 200 people at the peak of construction and would contribute to improved livelihoods in Chipata and surrounding communities through enhanced access to reliable electricity.

Meanwhile, Zesco Director of Projects and Planning Francis Namakanda said the project was progressing ahead of schedule and was expected to be commissioned by this November.

Mr Namakanda said construction commenced in March while installation of solar panels started this month.

He said the project formed part of the country's broader strategy to diversify energy sources and contribute towards the national target of adding 1, 000MW of solar power generation capacity to the national grid.

"Increasing solar generation capacity will enhance the resilience of Zambia's energy sector and support the country's long-term development objectives," Mr Namakanda said.

And China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) contractor representative Hu Guangyi described the project as an important investment in Zambia's renewable energy future.

Mr Hu said the solar power plant would complement existing hydropower generation by providing additional electricity during periods of reduced water levels, thereby improving the reliability of the national power system.

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