By 
Energy Minister, Makozo Chikote, on Friday commissioned a 121.8-kilowatt Solar Photovoltaic System (SPS) with a 125-kilowatt-hour battery storage unit at the Ministry of Energy, as part of efforts to reduce public sector dependence on grid electricity amid Zambia’s ongoing energy crisis.
The solar system, installed at a cost of K6.8 million, was developed using local expertise and includes net-metering capabilities that will allow the Ministry to supply excess power back to the national utility, ZESCO.
“This installation is a direct response to President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive under the Presidential Solar Initiative and stands as testimony to our commitment to lead by example,” Chikote said at the commissioning ceremony in Lusaka.
President Hichilema declared the current drought a national disaster on March 1, 2024, prompting the Cabinet Office to mandate rooftop solar energy solutions across all public institutions to mitigate electricity shortages.
Chikote said the project not only guarantees a 24/7 uninterrupted power supply to the Ministry but also represents a significant cost-saving measure.
He stated that before the solar system, the Ministry relied on a diesel generator, incurring fuel costs of K68,000 per month.
“With this installation, our objective of lowering operational costs and demonstrating the practicality and benefits of solar solutions within the public sector has been achieved,” Chikote said.
He added that the initiative proves Zambia has the local technical skills and innovation capacity to drive a sustainable energy transition.
“This shows that with local expertise, Zambia is capable of delivering homegrown energy solutions to meet national needs,” he said.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments