Zambia Launches 250MW Solar, 150MW Battery Project

Zambia has launched the construction of a 250-megawatt solar photovoltaic plant alongside a 150-megawatt battery energy storage system at the Leopard Hill Solar Generation Station in Chongwe District.

President Hakainde Hichilema, who performed the groundbreaking ceremony, said the $315 million hybrid project would significantly improve electricity supply and stabilise the national grid.

The project, located off Leopards Hill Road, combines solar generation with battery storage to ensure reliable and consistent power, particularly during peak demand periods.

Hichilema said the initiative reflects ongoing reforms in the energy sector, which have improved the investment climate and made large-scale projects more viable.

He emphasised the need for a diversified energy mix, urging stakeholders to pursue strategic partnerships and invest across different segments of the sector.

The President noted that Zambia has the potential to generate up to 1,000MW of solar energy, highlighting ongoing projects such as the Chisamba Solar Plants, which, together with Leopard Hill, are expected to add about 450MW to the national grid.

He also called on ZESCO Limited to strengthen its financial position and play a more active role in commercial ventures within the energy space.

Acting Minister of Energy, Rodney Sikumba, said the project underscores the positive impact of reforms and the government’s commitment to expanding electricity access.

Lusaka Province Minister, Sheal Mulyata, said the project would create jobs and stimulate local economic development.

Project Chairperson, Carl Irwin, disclosed that the development had been stalled for nearly a decade due to unfavourable policies but has now become viable following reforms that improved its bankability. He said the project, being implemented in partnership with Globeleq, Kyindu Resources Limited and ZESCO, will rank among the largest battery storage projects in Africa and deliver dispatchable, reliable power.

ZESCO Board Chairperson, Vickson Ncube, described the initiative as a reflection of consistent policy direction and the importance of sustainable energy solutions, noting the role of Independent Power Producers in supporting the grid during periods of load shedding.

Also speaking, Chongwe lawmaker and Minister of Lands, Sylvia Masebo, said the project would address longstanding electricity challenges in the district and improve access for residents.

Meanwhile, the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to Zambia, Rebecca Terzeon, said the project highlights the role of reliable electricity in driving economic growth and regional trade.

She added that the UK is contributing £1.2 million towards Zambia’s energy compact and supporting projects such as the Zambia–Tanzania interconnector, signalling a shift from aid to investment.