Zambia’s Largest 100 MW Solar PV Project Connected To The Grid in Kabwe

On May 20, the 100 MW emergency solar photovoltaic project in Kabwe, Zambia, was successfully connected to the national grid. As the largest single-site solar PV plant in Zambia, it is expected to generate 180 million kWh of electricity annually, meeting the power needs of 150,000 households and reducing the regional electricity shortfall by 30 percent.

Located in the Central Province's Chisamba District, the utility-scale solar project includes a ground-mounted 100 MW solar PV power station, a 33/132 kV substation, a 2.7 km 132 kV double-circuit transmission line, and an expanded substation, covering 106 hectares.

The project team completed 66,000 helical pile installations in 52 days, with a peak of 1,200 per day. Key components, such as two main transformers and 20 box transformers, were tested and commissioned in 30 days. Innovative methods in solar mounting and cable protection helped overcome technical challenges and shortened the construction cycle by over 40 percent, with the entire project completed in just 10 months.

Over 1,350 local jobs were created, with a 96 percent local hiring rate. Technical training was provided to 320 local workers. The project also contributed to community development through new water wells, irrigation support, and infrastructure upgrades. After completion, the construction camp will be converted into a school and clinic to support local education and healthcare.

This project marks a major step in expanding solar power in Africa, strengthening Zambia's renewable energy capacity, and supporting sustainable energy development with high-quality solar infrastructure and fast deployment.