Africa-focused renewable energy independent power producer (IPP) Globeleq has launched the 250 MWp Leopards Hill solar photovoltaic (PV) project in Zambia. The facility will feature a 150 MW / 600 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS), making it the country’s largest hybrid solar-plus-storage power plant after completion.
The project was launched at a ceremony attended by Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, the President of the Republic of Zambia, last month. It is expected to boost Zambia’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and strengthen national grid stability.
Speaking at the event, President Hakainde Hichilema reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to accelerating investment in clean and reliable energy infrastructure, noting that projects of this scale are critical to unlocking economic growth, supporting industrialisation, and improving the quality of life for all Zambians.
Located approximately 25 kms southeast of Lusaka, the project is being developed in partnership with Leopard Investment Company, one of Zambia’s oldest agricultural companies which has a long history of hosting essential energy infrastructure including the Leopards Hill Substation.
“Combined with our investment in LHPC, the Leopards Hill project strengthens our ability to offer tailored power solutions to major customers in the country and the region,” said Jonathan Hoffman, CEO of Globeleq.
“Globeleq is building a balanced and flexible platform that supports the country’s long-term energy strategy and enables sustained growth in the local mining sector. The Leopards Hill project strengthens Zambia’s energy system and expands the opportunities for private sector offtake in a rapidly growing market,” added Hoffman.
Leopards Hill solar central to Globeleq’s Zambia strategy
On the sidelines of the launch event, Globeleq and ZESCO signed the Grid Connection Agreement (GCA) for the Leopards Hill project, securing export capacity and reinforcing the partnership with the national grid operator.
The Leopards Hill solar project is expected to reach financial close by the end of 2026. It is projected to create an estimated 200–250 employment opportunities for local Zambians during peak construction. Once operational, the plant will provide additional ongoing job opportunities.
Globeleq, owned by the UK’s British International Investment and Norway’s Norfund, opened its Lusaka office in 2025 and is actively developing a growing energy portfolio in Zambia. This includes a 51% stake in the Lunsemfwa Hydro Power Company, which provides access to the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), and the 56 MWp Kafue Solar project, which is nearing financial close under the GET FiT Zambia programme.
Zambia is a key growth market for Globeleq as it expands its presence across Southern Africa. These investments deepen Globeleq’s diversified regional portfolio and support its active participation in the SAPP market.
