Zambia’s Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has issued $159 million worth of energy licenses and construction permits for solar power plants in the country.
This was announced by the Board’s Public Relations Manager, Namukolo Kasumpa, in a statement on June 23.
In the statement, Kasumpa said the Board approved 43 licence applications and six construction permits across the petroleum, electricity, and renewable energy sub-sectors, representing a total investment commitment of ZMW 3.9 billion (approximately US$159 million).
“The 43 approved licences span a wide range of energy-related activities that are critical to strengthening Zambia’s energy value chain”, the statement reads.
The Board also licensed 85 road tank vehicles to support the safe and efficient transportation of petroleum products across the country.
The permits cover a wide range of activities in the energy sector. These include the manufacture, supply, installation, and maintenance of renewable energy generating equipment.
Additionally, the permits cover the importation, blending, packaging, distribution, and export of lubricants.
Kasumpa said the development is vital to enhancing energy availability, promoting the adoption of cleaner and more efficient technologies, and ensuring a reliable supply of energy products and services across the country.
Solar power permits
The Board authorised the construction of six power service stations. The licences have been granted for electricity generation activities.
Two of the six approved construction permits are for large-scale renewable energy projects.
Chingola Solar PV plant:
Fitula Solar Company Limited received authorisation to construct a 12MW solar photovoltaic power plant in Chingola. The project is estimated to cost $11.5 million.
Kitwe Solar PV plant:
Garneton South Solar Limited has been issued a license to develop a 20MW solar photovoltaic power plant in the Kitwe region of Zambia. The project requires an investment of $22.9 million.
“These developments are integral to expanding energy access, improving safety standards, and enhancing service delivery across the nation”, Kasumpa said.
Last month, the board gave the green light to several major developments, including the $270 million Kalumbila-Kolwezi Interconnector Project (KKIP).
Also approved were a $75 million, 100MW solar power plant in Mumbwa, and an 8MW off-grid solar PV plant in Zambia’s North-Western Province.
