By 
Zambia’s Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development has signed an agreement with United Arab Emirates-based SGC Investment LLC to facilitate investment in solar power projects through local authorities, the government said.
The agreement followed discussions between the government and the UAE firm on opportunities to expand Zambia’s energy sector through the development of solar power plants in partnership with local authorities.
The agreement was signed by Permanent Secretary for Administration in the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Dr Gabriel Pollen, with the Ministry of Energy represented by Permanent Secretary for Energy Professor Ephraim Munshifwa.
Under the agreement, the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development will work with SGC Investment LLC to facilitate access to information and technical studies needed to enable the investor to establish power plants in Zambia.
The ministry will also coordinate with the Ministry of Energy to support the timely provision of relevant technical information.
“The partnership is expected to translate into actual energy investments and solar power projects across Zambia, with Local Authorities playing a key role in facilitating project development and investment opportunities,” Pollen said.
Read More: GreenCo raises $21.5 million to expand regional power trading
Pollen called for the establishment of a technical committee to oversee implementation of the agreement across the country.
SGC Investment LLC expressed interest in partnering with local authorities to support the growth of Zambia’s energy industry, while the government said it would provide coordination and technical support to move identified opportunities towards implementation.
“The signing therefore marks an important step in converting investment interest into bankable energy projects, increased generation capacity and tangible benefits for local communities,” the Ministry of Energy said.
Chibombo Town Council Town Clerk, speaking during the vote of thanks, said the partnership would complement government programmes such as the Presidential Constituency Energy Initiative, which targets the development of 2 megawatt solar power projects in each constituency.
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