Zambia’s US$90 Million Maamba Solar Project Begins Power Injection to Strengthen Energy Security
Zambia has begun receiving electricity from the 100-megawatt (MW) Maamba Solar photovoltaic (PV) project in Sinazongwe District, Southern Province, as the country steps up efforts to diversify its energy mix and strengthen power supply.
The project, developed by Maamba Solar Energy Limited (MSEL), injected electricity into the national grid for the first time on September 24, 2026, marking the start of its commissioning phase.
The approximately US$90 million project is jointly owned by ZCCM Investments Holdings (ZCCM-IH), which holds a 35% stake, and Nava Global PTE Limited, the international arm of India-listed Nava Limited, which owns the remaining 65%.
Located alongside Maamba’s existing thermal power operations, the solar facility is expected to add renewable generation capacity and reduce Zambia’s reliance on hydropower, which remains vulnerable to drought and changing weather conditions.
Solar Power to Strengthen Energy Security
ZCCM-IH Chief Executive Officer Kakenenwa Muyangwa said the project came at an important time as Zambia prepared for potential El Niño conditions that could put further pressure on hydropower generation.
He said the additional 100 MW of solar capacity would help diversify the country’s electricity generation mix and strengthen the resilience of the national grid.
The project also supports Zambia’s ambition to expand installed electricity generation capacity to 10,000 MW, with investment in renewable energy expected to play an important role in meeting growing demand from households, businesses and the mining sector.
Long-Term Power Supply Agreement
MSEL has a 20-year power purchase agreement with ZESCO Limited covering the electricity generated by the plant. The agreement was signed at a tariff of US$0.078 per kilowatt-hour.
The project uses bifacial solar panels mounted on single-axis tracking systems, allowing the panels to follow the sun and improve energy capture throughout the day.
Following the initial power injection, the plant must complete commissioning, synchronisation and performance testing before entering full commercial operation.
The Maamba project adds to Zambia’s growing solar portfolio as the country seeks to reduce its exposure to hydrological risks, improve electricity supply reliability and attract further private investment into renewable energy.
