Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema this week commissioned the 136‑megawatt (MW) second phase of the Itimpi solar power plant, developed by Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) Renewables. The facility’s existing 60 MW first phase was completed in April 2024, and the new addition brings the site’s total capacity to 196 MW.
With its expanded capacity, Itimpi is now the largest solar power plant in Zambia. Speaking at the commissioning of the solar photovoltaic facility, Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) Chief Executive Officer Owen Silavwe said the project demonstrates that extraordinary achievements are possible when commitment and partnership come together.
The solar energy facility was financed through a US$96.7 million investment, raised via the second tranche of CEC’s US$200 million green bond listed on the Lusaka Securities Exchange (LuSE).
President Hichilema speaking at the launch ceremony stated that the project brings Zambia closer to its goal of achieving 10,000 MW of electricity generation capacity by 2030. He emphasized that reliable power is essential for productivity and industrial growth, noting that the mining sector alone will need more than 8,000 MW to meet its target of producing 3 million metric tonnes of copper.
Itimpi solar plant to advance Zambia’s energy transition
The addition of 136 MW Itimpi solar plant is expected to mitigate carbon emissions equivalent to approximately 126,000 tCO2e. The project also created around 800 jobs. Power generated at the facility is sold to CEC’s mining sector clients in Zambia’s Copperbelt province, while any excess is supplied to the state utility ZESCO. As a result, an estimated 146,000 end-users will benefit from improved electricity supply quality.
CEC Board Chairperson London Mwafulilwa described the commissioning of the Itimpi 2 Solar Plant as a landmark achievement, demonstrating Zambia’s capacity to deliver world-class infrastructure. He stated that the project signals Zambia’s leadership in Africa’s clean energy transition and showcases what can be accomplished through vision and decisive action. “Itimpi is not just a facility; it is an investment in Zambia’s energy future,” he noted.
