Siavonga District, Southern Province – Zambia has taken a major step toward energy diversification with the official groundbreaking of the 100-megawatt Siavonga Solar Power Plant, marking one of the country’s most significant renewable energy investments in recent years.
The solar facility, valued at approximately $80 million, will be developed through a strategic partnership between state-owned ZESCO Limited and JIGSCO Energy Corporation Limited.
Power China has been appointed as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contractor for the ambitious project.
Fast-Track Development Timeline
Construction teams are working under an aggressive 10-month timeline, with the facility expected to achieve commercial operation by December 2026. The rapid development schedule reflects Zambia’s urgent need to address ongoing power supply challenges that have plagued the nation.
Located in the Dokota area within Chief Simamba’s Chiefdom, the solar plant will significantly bolster Zambia’s electricity generation capacity while reducing the country’s heavy reliance on hydropower infrastructure.
Economic Benefits and Job Creation
The project promises substantial economic benefits for the Southern Province region. During the construction phase, the development will generate between 600 and 1,000 temporary jobs, providing crucial employment opportunities for local communities.
Once operational, the facility will create approximately 100 permanent positions.
This job creation comes at a critical time for Zambia, as the country works to stimulate economic growth and reduce unemployment rates across rural areas.
Addressing Zambia’s Energy Crisis
The Siavonga Solar Power Plant represents a strategic response to Zambia’s current energy challenges. Severe drought conditions have dramatically reduced water levels at key hydropower stations, leading to prolonged power outages across the nation.
The Kariba Dam, which supplies a significant portion of Zambia’s electricity, has been operating at reduced capacity due to critically low water levels.
By incorporating solar energy into the national grid, Zambia aims to create a more resilient and diversified energy portfolio that is less vulnerable to climate-related disruptions.
Part of Broader Renewable Energy Strategy
The Siavonga project aligns with Zambia’s commitment to expanding renewable energy sources and meeting growing electricity demand.
Government officials have emphasized that solar power development will play a crucial role in the country’s long-term energy security strategy.
The 100-megawatt capacity will contribute meaningfully to closing the electricity supply gap while supporting industrial development and improving access to reliable power for households across the nation.
Regional Impact
Southern Province stands to benefit significantly from the development. Beyond direct employment, the project is expected to stimulate local businesses, improve infrastructure, and attract additional investment to the Siavonga District.
The solar plant will also serve as a model for future renewable energy projects in Zambia, demonstrating the viability of large-scale solar development in the region.
Looking Ahead
As construction progresses over the coming months, the Siavonga Solar Power Plant will be closely watched by energy sector stakeholders across Southern Africa. Success could pave the way for additional solar investments and accelerate Zambia’s transition toward a more sustainable energy future.
With climate change continuing to impact traditional hydropower reliability, the shift toward solar and other renewable sources represents not just an economic opportunity but an environmental necessity for Zambia’s energy independence.
The Siavonga Solar Power Plant is scheduled to begin commercial operations in December 2026, adding 100 megawatts of clean energy to Zambia’s national grid.
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