Tanzanian Amsons Group To Develop 1,300MW Of Solar And Coal Power Projects In Zambia Worth USD 900 Million

LUSAKA – Zambia is poised for a significant boost to its energy sector with the announcement of a substantial USD 900 million investment by Tanzania's Amsons Group, in collaboration with Exergy Africa Limited. This ambitious partnership aims to develop 1,300 megawatts (MW) of new power generation capacity, a move that could profoundly impact the nation's industrial landscape and household energy access. The proposed power projects will be strategically diversified, with 1,000MW allocated to solar energy and 300MW to coal-fired generation. This blend reflects Zambia's dual commitment to embracing renewable energy sources while also leveraging its abundant coal reserves to ensure base-load power stability. The solar component aligns with global efforts towards decarbonisation and capitalises on Zambia's favourable solar irradiation, offering a sustainable path to energy independence. The coal aspect, while controversial in some circles, is often seen as a pragmatic solution for consistent power supply, especially for energy-intensive industries. This considerable investment comes at a crucial time for Zambia, a country that has historically grappled with power deficits, particularly during periods of low rainfall impacting its predominantly hydro-dependent energy matrix. The addition of 1,300MW represents a substantial increase in the national grid's capacity, potentially alleviating load shedding and supporting the government's agenda for economic growth and industrialisation. Reliable and affordable electricity is a cornerstone for attracting foreign direct investment and fostering local enterprise development across various sectors, from mining to manufacturing. The involvement of a Tanzanian conglomerate, Amsons Group, alongside Exergy Africa Limited, highlights the growing trend of intra-African investment and collaboration in critical infrastructure projects. Such cross-border partnerships are vital for pooling resources, expertise, and capital to tackle shar