Zambian Utility Launches Tender For 7.5 MW AC Solar

• Zambia's ZESCO plans to install 7.5 MW AC solar power capacity in Lusaka province 
• It is looking for EPC contractors for the project to locate the same at its Central Bulk Stores 
• This grid-connected solar power plant is part of the utility's efforts to diversify its energy generation sources 

Zambian national utility ZESCO Limited has launched a call for EPC contractors to set up a solar power plant on unused land at Kasupe owned by the company. The 7.5 MW AC solar plant is proposed to be located at the ZESCO Central Bulk Stores. 

ZESCO plans to use the 35 hectares of unused land at Kasupe for the development of renewable energy projects. Kasupe in Lusaka West in Lusaka district is around 20 kms from the Lusaka Central Business District. 

Currently, ZESCO's portfolio is dominated by hydropower plants with a combined capacity of over 2.9 GW. According to the tender call, available on the website greatzambiajobs.com, this grid connected solar project forms part of the utility's plans to diversify its electricity supply with renewable energy. 

To accelerate the development, ZESCO plans to develop smaller-sized grid-connected solar PV plants. 

ZESCO announced the expressions of interest (EOI) round on February 1, 2024. The last date to submit applications is February 16, 2024. 

According to the Annual Solar Outlook 2024 part I of the Africa Solar industry Association (AFSIA), Zambia installed 33 MW of new solar PV capacity in 2023 (see Africa Installed 3.7 GW New Solar PV Capacity In 2023). 

Combined with the 96 MW cumulative PV capacity the country had installed till 2022-end, according to the International Energy Agency, Zambia exited 2023 with 129 MW. 

Recently, ZESCO announced groundbreaking for a 100 MW solar power project in Kafungalubala in Chisamba district.