Zambia’s government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with a consortium of Chinese companies to develop up to 1 000 megawatts (MW) of solar power, a landmark step in expanding the country’s clean energy infrastructure and addressing chronic energy shortfalls.

The agreement, concluded in Lusaka, aligns with Zambia’s long-term strategy to diversify its energy mix, reduce reliance on hydropower, and attract foreign investment into renewable generation.

Under the MoU framework, Zambian and Chinese partners will jointly undertake feasibility studies, site selection, and project planning, with the aim of fast-tracking solar farm development and grid integration. The coordinated effort is expected to unlock private capital, enhance energy reliability, and support economic growth, particularly for mining, manufacturing, and industrial users that depend on a stable electricity supply.

Officials emphasize that expanding solar capacity is not just about powering homes and businesses: it’s central to Zambia’s broader climate and industrial agendas.

The nation hopes to reduce generation costs, alleviate power shortages, and establish itself as a regional leader in sustainable, low-carbon energy development by incorporating utility-scale renewable energy, all the while promoting jobs, skills, and local involvement in the developing solar value chain.