Zambia, SunShare Energy Ink $246m Soalr Plant Expansion Deal

The Zambian Government has signed a $246 million agreement with SunShare Energy to expand the Nambala Solar PV plant by an additional 200 megawatts, raising the facility’s total generation capacity to 250MW as the country accelerates efforts to strengthen energy security and diversify its electricity mix.

The agreement was formalised through a Power Purchase Agreement signed between SunShare Energy and ZESCO, Zambia’s state-owned electricity utility.

Under the arrangement, electricity generated from the expanded solar facility will be supplied directly into the national grid to improve power availability for households, businesses and industries across the country.

The project, located in Mumbwa District, forms part of Zambia’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on hydroelectric generation, which has come under increasing pressure due to prolonged droughts linked to climate change.

Hydropower currently accounts for the bulk of Zambia’s electricity generation, leaving the country vulnerable to power shortages whenever water levels at major dams decline.

Government officials said the expansion of the Nambala Solar PV plant would help ease pressure on critical hydropower infrastructure, including the Kariba Dam, while creating a more balanced and resilient energy system.

They noted that increasing solar generation capacity would provide a reliable alternative during periods of low rainfall and help minimise the economic impact of electricity shortages and load shedding.

The project will deploy advanced solar photovoltaic technology to convert sunlight into electricity, alongside battery energy storage systems and transmission infrastructure needed to connect the plant to the national grid.

Zambia is regarded as one of Southern Africa’s most promising destinations for solar energy development because of its high solar irradiation levels throughout the year.

Officials said the project aligns with the country’s long-term energy transition agenda and broader climate commitments aimed at increasing the share of renewable energy in the national energy mix.

The expansion is also expected to create employment opportunities during both the construction and operational phases of the project.

Temporary jobs will be created for local workers during construction, while technical and operational roles are expected once the facility becomes fully operational.

SunShare Energy reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zambia’s renewable energy ambitions and delivering the project within schedule.

The company said the investment would contribute to improving electricity access and strengthening grid reliability while supporting sustainable economic growth.

Energy sector stakeholders described the agreement as a significant milestone for Zambia’s renewable energy sector and infrastructure development efforts.

They said the partnership between the government, ZESCO and private investors demonstrates the growing role of international collaboration in accelerating clean energy investments across Africa.

The project is expected to further position Zambia as an emerging renewable energy hub in Southern Africa as countries across the region intensify efforts to transition toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.