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The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has approved 89 licence applications and eight construction permits in the petroleum and renewable energy sub-sectors, collectively representing an investment of US$381.4 million.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka on Thursday, ERB Manager for Public Relations, Namukolo Kasumpa, revealed that the construction permits granted within the renewable energy sub-sector amounted to US$189 million.
These permits include a 50 MW Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Plant at Baluba Maposa in Luanshya District and a 50 MW Solar PV Power Plant integrated with a 20 MWh battery energy storage system by Cooma Solar Power Plant Limited.
Additionally, ZESCO Limited has been granted approval for a 330kV transmission line from Lusaka West Substation to Kabwe Stepdown Substation.
Kasumpa noted that these power generation projects are crucial to Zambia’s policy of diversifying its energy mix and addressing the country’s ongoing energy challenges.
She emphasized that the transmission line would improve the reliability of Zambia’s power interconnection system.
The approved licences cover a range of activities within the energy sector, including the retail of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), supply and installation of solar energy equipment, and the transportation, importation, and retail of petroleum products.
Kasumpa stressed that these licences would not only improve energy security and diversify Zambia’s energy supply but also attract significant investment, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
The approvals, granted during the February Licensing Committee meeting, followed a rigorous evaluation process to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.
Kasumpa highlighted that this stringent licensing process reflects the ERB’s commitment to promoting investment and growth in Zambia’s energy sector.
“The ERB is dedicated to creating a transparent regulatory environment that fosters sustainable energy alternatives, attracts investment, and ensures compliance with licensing guidelines and standards,” Kasumpa assured.
She stated that the substantial investment reflected investor confidence in Zambia’s energy sector and strengthened government’s policies that supported ERB’s regulatory framework.
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