The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) of Zambia has approved 61 licence and construction permit applications representing approximately K13.4 billion (US$662.3 million) in proposed investments across the electricity, renewable energy and downstream petroleum subsectors. The approvals were granted during the ERB Licensing Committee meeting held on 14 October 2026, reflecting continued investor interest in the country’s energy infrastructure.
According to a press statement issued on 20 October 2026 by Namokolo Kasumpa, Manager for Public Relations at the ERB, the approved applications comprise 48 initial and renewal licence applications, nine construction permit applications and four amendments to petroleum transportation licences. The proposed investments are expected to support electricity generation, expand energy distribution networks, increase renewable energy deployment and strengthen petroleum supply infrastructure.
The electricity subsector accounted for the largest share of the proposed investment, mainly due to large-scale power generation projects. Among the key developments is a proposed 150 MW coal-fired thermal power plant in Ndola. The project is expected to contribute to electricity generation capacity in the country.
Solar energy projects also feature prominently among the approved applications. These include a proposed 125 MWp solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in Mufulira and the 120 MWp Kasama Solar PV Power Plant. Additional solar developments are planned for Chikuni and Rusangu in Monze, Mwandi and Chadiza.
The approvals also cover the expansion of electricity distribution infrastructure within the Chambishi Multi-Facility Economic Zone in Kalulushi. Such infrastructure development is intended to support electricity supply for industrial and commercial activities while accommodating growing energy demand.
In the downstream petroleum subsector, the approved applications cover several activities across the fuel supply chain. These include petroleum transportation, distribution, importation and exportation, as well as lubricant-related businesses and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) retail operations. The inclusion of LPG retail activities is expected to support the availability of cleaner cooking fuels.
The approvals also include proposed petroleum retail facilities in Chongwe, Ndola and Chibombo. In addition, amendments to existing petroleum transportation licences will allow the addition of tankers, helping licensed operators strengthen their transportation capacity and support fuel distribution.
Meanwhile, applications approved under the renewable energy subsector primarily involve the manufacture, supply, installation and maintenance of renewable energy-generating equipment. These activities are expected to support the development of renewable energy services and improve access to equipment required for clean energy projects.
The proposed investments are expected to contribute to improving the reliability and resilience of electricity supply for residential, commercial and industrial consumers. They also reflect opportunities to expand generation capacity and diversify the country’s energy resources.
The ERB stated that it remains committed to facilitating responsible investment through transparent, efficient and predictable licensing processes. The regulator will continue to ensure that approved activities comply with applicable legislation, regulatory requirements and established safety standards.
Collectively, the 61 approvals highlight ongoing development across Zambia’s energy sector, with investments spanning conventional power generation, solar energy, electricity distribution and petroleum infrastructure.
