The impact of coronavirus and concerns about swelling public debt have forced Zambia to indefinitely freeze plans for China to build 600MW of solar capacity.
Will Zambia build a solar energy plant by 2026?
The solar energy plants are set to be constructed in Zambia by 2026 as the country looks to increase its electricity output. The MoU was signed in Beijing last week. Image Source: China Datang Corporation One of China's five large-scale power generation enterprises wants to build three solar energy projects in Zambia over the next few years.
Several communities, entrepreneurs, the government and NGOs work together to increase the share of solar power in the country. The Zambian solar sector consists of several segments. Most installations generate power with the use of solar photovoltaics (PV).
Furthermore, there are inadequate standards for the off-grid sector, which can, among others, lead to the circulation of sub-standard products. Since many areas in Zambia are rural and the population densities are low, maintenance in these areas can also be a problem. Zambia has a high potential for solar power and the sector is growing.
Will China Datang invest in New energy projects in Zambia?
According to the MoU, China Datang will invest in and construct 220MW of new energy projects with “high quality and efficiency.” Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema said the government is working towards attaining a power generation capacity of 10,000MW.
How can Zambia build a resilient energy sector?
The President stressed that diversifying Zambia's energy mix, reducing reliance on hydroelectricity, and embracing solar energy are crucial steps to building a resilient energy sector. “We are determined to shift away from dependence on hydroelectric power, which is increasingly susceptible to the effects of drought and climate change.
In August, ESI Africa reported that Zambia is facing an energy crisis caused by low water levels at its hydropower plants. A drought has reduced water levels in the Kafue River and Zambezi basins. As of 31 July, the national peak demand for electricity stood at 2,400MW. Available power generation was at 1,040MW, leaving a deficit of 1,360MW.