ERB Signs Off K1 Billion in Energy Licences and Permits

The Energy Regulation Board has approved thirty-three licence applications, three construction permits and a series of licence amendments across the petroleum, renewable energy and electricity sub-sectors, representing a combined investment commitment of K1 billion, or approximately US$50.9 million.

The approvals, granted at the ERB Licensing Committee meeting on 11 September 2026, reflected investor confidence in Zambia's energy sector, the regulator said in a statement on Thursday.

In the petroleum sub-sector, the ERB approved thirteen licences for the distribution, importation and exportation of petroleum products, seven for transportation, one for lubricants and three for retail. It also cleared the construction of three new service stations and the operation of one newly acquired station, and licensed forty-two road tank vehicles to strengthen fuel distribution nationwide.

Eight licences were approved for the manufacture, supply, installation and maintenance of renewable energy generating equipment, alongside one licence for the generation, distribution and supply of electricity.

Public Relations Manager Namukolo Kasumpa said the licences had been issued in accordance with the Energy Regulation Act No. 12 of 2019, and that the Board remained committed to regulating the sector in the public interest, with a focus on safety, efficiency, consumer protection, compliance and sustainable development.