Energy stakeholders urged to focus on bridging Zambia’s rural energy gap

The Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) has called on key stakeholders in Zambia’s energy sector to adopt innovative Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) aimed at addressing electricity access challenges in rural communities.

CTPD Legal Researcher, Lucy Musonda, stated that prioritising such PPAs would significantly expand electricity supply in underserved areas, fostering inclusive development and advancing Zambia’s energy access targets.

“PPAs tailored to rural communities can stimulate projects that enhance socio-economic development, such as improved agricultural efficiency through irrigation and agro-processing, and support small businesses to thrive, thereby improving quality of life,” Musonda said in a statement issued on Thursday.

Musonda urged stakeholders, including the Rural Electrification Authority, Energy Regulation Board, ZESCO, investors, and development partners, to address barriers inhibiting private sector investment and ensure that future PPAs target rural electrification.

A 2024 Ministry of Energy survey revealed that while 53.6 percent of households nationally have electricity access, only 34 percent of rural households are connected, compared to 80.3 percent in urban areas.

Musonda highlighted that millions of Zambians in rural areas still rely on unsustainable energy sources like charcoal and firewood, underscoring the urgent need for transformative solutions.

“PPAs represent a pivotal opportunity to close the energy gap, provided a collaborative approach is taken between the government, private sector, and local stakeholders to implement sustainable energy solutions,” she added.

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