Zambia has commissioned its 100MW Chisamba II Solar Power Plant, doubling the Chisamba Solar Complex’s total capacity to 200MW as the country works to strengthen electricity security and diversify away from drought-hit hydropower.

Power utility ZESCO developed the project with a $71.5 million loan from Stanbic Bank Zambia, backed by a 13-year power purchase agreement with regional energy trader GreenCo. The plant was built by PowerChina.

Electricity generated at the site will be supplied to copper producer First Quantum Minerals through GreenCo’s power trading arrangements, giving the miner access to renewable power while freeing up grid capacity for other users. Located in Chisamba District, Central Province, the project adds to Zambia’s push for a more resilient, sustainable energy sector.

Source: angolanminingoilandgas.com