100MW Solar photovoltaic power plant coming to Itezhi‑Tezhi

Itezhi‑Tezhi District Commissioner Tobias Namantemba has welcomed plans by ZESCO to establish a 100MW solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant and an associated 33kV power distribution line in the district. Mr Namantemba said the project will contribute to increasing the country’s…

 Itezhi‑Tezhi District Commissioner Tobias Namantemba has welcomed plans by ZESCO to establish a 100MW solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant and an associated 33kV power distribution line in the district.

Mr Namantemba said the project will contribute to increasing the country’s electricity generation capacity and improve access to reliable power for both domestic and industrial use.

He said Zambia is in need of increased electricity generation capacity, adding that investments in renewable energy such as the proposed solar project will help meet the growing demand for electricity.

Mr Namantemba was speaking during an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) meeting for the proposed project in Itezhi-Tezhi.

He said the project should be supported because of its potential to benefit both the local community and the country at large.

“The nation is in need of energy, and such projects will help boost production in industries and provide electricity for domestic use,” Mr Namantemba said.

He further said the project would create employment opportunities for local people and contribute to the economic development of Itezhi-Tezhi District.

The proposed Itezhi-Tezhi 100MWac Solar PV Plant is intended to harness the district’s solar energy potential and supply additional renewable electricity to the national grid.

According to the project justification, the development is expected to increase electricity generation capacity, strengthen the reliability and resilience of Zambia’s power supply system, and reduce reliance on hydro-power.

The associated power evacuation infrastructure will facilitate the efficient and reliable transmission of electricity generated by the solar plant to the existing electricity transmission network.

Meanwhile, Itezhi-Tezhi Town Council Secretary Embassy Chembo has commended ZESCO for initiating the project, saying it has the potential to improve the council’s revenue base and stimulate economic activity in the district.

Mr Chembo said Itezhi-Tezhi currently lacks sufficient industries to provide employment and generate economic opportunities for residents.

“The district lacks industries and is looking for industries that will boost employment. This project should therefore be given the necessary support and allowed to be established,” he said.

Mr Chembo said the establishment of the solar plant would not only contribute to increased electricity supply but could also attract other investments and industries to the district.