Zambia has attained its 1,000 MW solar capacity target set for 2026, President Hakainde Hichilema has announced. The head of state did not attend the 2026 Energy Forum for Africa conference in Lusaka in person. Vice President Mutale Nalumango read his speech at the official opening, held under the theme "Driving a Borderless Energy Future for Africa."

Solar capacity rises from 178 MW to 1,027 MW

According to the president, the country's installed electricity generation capacity increased from 3,777 MW in 2024 to 4,722 MW today. Over the same period, solar capacity rose from 178 MW to 1,027 MW, exceeding the 1,000 MW target. Elsewhere, solar projects are also moving forward: Jyske Bank is financing construction of a 57.4 MWp solar project by European Energy, while Renalfa and Eurowind inaugurate Tenevo, a 242 MWp solar complex with batteries.

Hakainde Hichilema says the increase illustrates the diversification of the energy mix, as climate change weakens reliance on hydropower. He believes the energy strategy should not be measured only in megawatts, but by the sector's capacity to support economic growth and transformation.

A 10,000 MW target by 2031

The country is working toward 10,000 MW by 2031. The president states that investment in transmission and distribution infrastructure must keep pace with increased generation, and he urges energy sector players to prioritise transmission. He says the government is committed to creating an enabling policy environment for sustainable investment.

Acting Minister of Energy Situmbeko Musokotwane says several energy projects are at different stages of development. He expresses confidence that the 10,000 MW target for 2031 will be achieved through partnerships. He calls on investors with signed Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to move toward implementation, and wants the forum to help translate commitments into concrete projects. His speech was read by Permanent Secretary-Electricity Arnold Simwaba.

An interconnector under development with Zimbabwe

The minister says Zambia is positioning itself to become an electricity hub in the region, under the Grow Zambia Agenda, which focuses on generation, transmission and distribution. The president calls for a borderless regional energy vision and stresses that every megawatt generated must contribute to economic growth.

Zimbabwean Minister of Energy July Moyo considers that a borderless regional energy system is possible and necessary to support growing industries, particularly mining and agriculture. He notes that Zambia and Zimbabwe are working on an electricity interconnector to strengthen regional energy security. He urges countries to invest in cross-border energy infrastructure before energy crises occur.

In a vote of thanks, Permanent Secretary-Energy Ephraim Munshifwa says African countries need to work together to develop energy projects that promote energy security and regional integration. He also calls for stronger integration of the electricity and petroleum sub-sectors.