Government Secures $232m Solar Project

Government has secured a 312 megawatt solar power project worth about US$232 million under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Local Government and Rural Development Permanent Secretary for Technical Services Nicholas Phiri said the investment would deliver two megawatts of solar fields in each of the country's 156 constituencies. He added that he would leave office a "proud" former public servant, crediting the project to the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.

Speaking to the media in Chadiza District on Wednesday, Phiri said the procurement process had been finalised and contractors would be unveiled within roughly the next week. He explained that the President had committed last year to investing in two megawatts of solar fields across all constituencies. Eastern Province alone will receive 32 megawatts, valued at around $23 million. At $750,000 per megawatt, Phiri described the arrangement as a good deal that met the President's criteria of quality, timeliness and reasonable pricing.

Preparations for a groundbreaking ceremony are underway, with local authorities assessing their readiness to implement the scheme. Phiri said the project would strengthen national energy security through renewable investment and transform how local authorities deliver municipal services.

Once completed, the plants would allow local authorities to sell power to the national grid as shareholders, earning predictable dividends.

Phiri toured the proposed construction site in Chadiza District.