Zambia energy storage power station investment

Why is energy access so important in Zambia?

Economic growth is synonymous with energy access. Zambia also has long and intense hours of annual sunlight to support solar energy generation. Demand for energy has been rising due to economic activity in the country particularly in the mining, manufacturing and agriculture sectors.

What is the energy sector in Zambia?

The energy sector in Zambia, specifically the petroleum industry, is one of the key sectors of the economy. Petroleum is the only energy source that is 100 per cent imported in Zambia. In agreement with the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, the petroleum sector has been identified as a special sector which requires analysis.

How does Zambia's Electricity Market work?

Zambia’s electricity market is structured as a single-buyer market, with ZESCO acting as the sole off-taker and bulk retailer of electricity through the national grid.

How much electricity does Zambia produce?

Zambia has 2,800 MW of installed electricity generation capacity, of which 83 percent is from hydro, nine percent from coal, five percent from heavy fuel oil, and three percent from solar. The mining sector is the country’s largest power consumer, using 51 percent of total generated electricity, followed by the domestic sector at 33 percent.

What are the main hydroelectric power stations in Zambia?

Zambia’s main hydroelectric power facilities are the Kariba North Bank Power Station (1,080 MW), Kafue Gorge Power Station (980MW), Kafue Gorge Lower Power Station (750 MW), Victoria Falls Power Station (108 MW), Lunsemfwa Hydro Power Station (56 MW), and the Itezhi Tezhi Hydro Power Station (120 MW).

How much solar power does Zambia have?

Zambia’s installed solar capacity is 89 MW. Zambia has two utility scale solar power plants: French company, Neoen, and U.S. company, First Solar, own and operate the 47.5 MW Bangweulu Solar Power Station in Lusaka, of which the Zambian government holds a 20 percent stake through its Industrial Development Corporation (IDC).