Amidst the challenges posed by eight-hour-long load shedding affecting households and businesses, Zambia finds a glimmer of hope as ZESCO, the country’s electricity utility, finalizes a groundbreaking 1000 megawatts solar power purchase agreement (PPA) with Sky Power Global, based in the United Arab Emirates.
This landmark agreement signifies a significant stride in Zambia’s Integrated Renewable Energy Plan, designed to enhance the nation’s capacity for sustainable growth.
President Hakainde Hichilema has underlined the strategic importance of this venture, emphasizing its role in mitigating the effects of the ongoing drought and advancing Zambia’s renewable energy agenda. Speaking through his special assistant for economic, financial, investment, and development, Jito Kaumba, President Hichilema hailed the Green Giant Zambia project as a pivotal element of the country’s renewable energy strategy.
“This agreement holds the potential to substantially expand our renewable energy capacity, addressing both current and future energy needs,” remarked President Hichilema.
Victor Mapani, Managing Director of ZESCO, echoed the President’s sentiments, affirming the company’s steadfast commitment to positioning Zambia as a renewable energy hub. Mapani stressed that the partnership with Sky Power Global exemplifies ZESCO’s dedication to sustainable transformation.
Moreover, Mapani underscored the significant socio-economic benefits of the initiative, highlighting the Green Giant Zambia project’s potential to electrify approximately 4 million homes and create substantial employment opportunities, particularly for the youth.
“The Green Giant Zambia project is poised to provide electricity to around 4 million households and drive significant job creation and infrastructure development,” he stated.
This collaboration not only represents a leap forward in Zambia’s renewable energy landscape but also signals a brighter, greener future for the nation, aligning with global efforts to transition towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.
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