Solarcentury & IDC to co-develop a 67MW solar project in Zambia

Africa-focused renewable energy developer, Solarcentury Africa, and the Industrial Development Corporation Limited (IDC) of Zambia, last week signed a heads of terms agreement to co-develop a 67 MWp solar power plant in Zambia. 

The solar plant is intended to deliver power to IDC’s large industrial users in Zambia amidst power shortages in the Southern African country. Once completed, the power plant will connect to the ZESCO backbone near Chisamba Central Province, Zambia reducing the need for power transfer from the south. 

IDC has already secured the project site and carried out initial technical studies, while Solarcentury Africa will be responsible for completing development, design, funding and delivery of the plant.

Solarcentury Africa will bring valuable experience to this partnership, having completed the development of the first 25 MW of the 100MW solar project in Kanona, Serenje District, which began construction last year and is set for commissioning in Q2 2025.

Advancing renewable energy penetration in Zambia

“Zambia’s urgent need for reliable power makes this project a crucial step towards energy security. We are very excited to partner with IDC to develop sustainable solutions that support Zambia’s economy and industrial sector,” said Jason De Carteret, CEO of Solarcentury Africa.

IDC lauded the partnership with Solarcentury, highlighting the project’s importance in increasing the share of renewable energy in the country’s energy mix in alignment with Zambia’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).

“We are thrilled to partner with Solarcentury Africa to deliver a project that will have a significant impact on Zambia’s energy landscape. This project is a testament to our commitment to supporting Zambia’s industrialization agenda and reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels,” said Cornwell Muleya, Chief Executive Officer of IDC.

“By harnessing Zambia’s abundant solar resources, we are contributing to a more diversified and sustainable energy sector, which will drive economic growth, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve energy security for generations to come,” concluded Muleya.