Zambia Launches 100 MW Siavonga Solar PV Project to Strengthen Grid and Energy Security

Zambia has taken a significant step toward strengthening energy security and attracting renewable energy investment with the groundbreaking of the US$80 million Siavonga 100 MW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Project, a large-scale development expected to bolster the country’s national power supply.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Energy, Permanent Secretary–Electricity Eng. Arnold Simwaba said the project reflects the government’s commitment to converting energy policy into bankable investments that diversify Zambia’s energy mix, enhance resilience to climate variability, and ensure reliable electricity to support economic growth.

He noted that solar energy has become a strategic priority as hydrological challenges continue to impact hydropower generation. Projects such as the Siavonga Solar PV Plant are designed to strengthen the power system against climate shocks while meeting rising electricity demand from households, businesses, and industry.

Eng. Simwaba also praised traditional leaders in Siavonga for the early and proactive provision of land, which helped create investor certainty and enabled the project to move efficiently from planning to implementation. He said this sends a strong signal that Zambia offers a stable, predictable, and inclusive environment for energy investments.

The 100 MW plant will be developed by JIGSCO Energy Corporation Limited, a joint venture between ZESCO Limited and Jigsaw Investments, with Power China serving as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor. Once completed, the project will add significant capacity to the national grid, improve supply stability, and reinforce Siavonga’s role in Zambia’s evolving energy landscape as the country transitions from hydro-based generation to solar power.

Scheduled to achieve commercial operation by December 2026, the project aligns with Zambia’s Integrated Resource Plan and the National Energy Policy of 2019. It is expected to contribute to ending load shedding while delivering long-term socio-economic benefits, including job creation, skills development, and sustained local economic activity.