Suncore Solar, MUZ, and Monasa Sign MoU To Develop 220 MW Solar Projects In Zambia

Suncore Solar, the Mineworkers Union of Zambia (MUZ), and Monasa have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop 220 MW of solar power projects across Zambia. The agreement establishes a partnership aimed at expanding the country’s renewable energy capacity while improving electricity supply and supporting economic development.

Under the MoU, Suncore Solar and Monasa will be responsible for the technical design, project development, and financing of the planned solar installations. The Mineworkers Union of Zambia will play an important role in ensuring that mine workers and local communities benefit from the projects through improved access to clean energy, employment opportunities, and economic participation.

The initiative comes as Zambia continues to face significant electricity shortages caused by prolonged droughts that have reduced power generation from the country’s hydroelectric plants. Since hydropower has traditionally been Zambia’s main source of electricity, lower water levels have increased the need for alternative and more reliable energy sources.

The planned 220 MW of solar capacity is expected to help diversify Zambia’s energy mix and reduce its dependence on hydropower. The projects will also provide a more stable electricity supply to key industries, particularly the mining sector, which is one of the country’s largest electricity consumers and a major contributor to the national economy.

In addition to strengthening energy security, the solar projects are expected to create direct and indirect jobs during both the construction and operational phases. The partners also aim to support local businesses, develop technical skills, and encourage greater participation of local communities in the renewable energy sector.

The collaboration reflects a growing trend of partnerships between private companies and labor organizations to advance clean energy development in Southern Africa. The signing of the MoU marks an important first step toward implementing the projects, with the partners expected to move forward with site selection, grid connection studies, and other development activities before construction begins.