Govt urges Copperbelt Energy Corporation to boost investment in renewable energy

The Zambian government has urged Copperbelt Energy Corporation PLC (CEC) to increase its investment in renewable energy as a strategic measure to mitigate future energy crises.

At present, the company operates two solar power plants generating 94 megawatts of power.

The company is also reportedly preparing to launch the second phase of its Itimpi Solar Power Project, which would add 136 megawatts to the grid and was expected to be fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2025.

During a courtesy visit to the firm in Kitwe, Technology and Science Minister, Felix Mutati, said in statement issued in Lusaka on Thursday that renewable energy was the most viable alternative to hydroelectric power, especially as it was less vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

“The current energy crisis has provided an opportunity for Zambia to diversify its energy sources and invest more in electricity generation,” Mutati stated, highlighting the importance of prioritising renewable energy for the country’s future power needs.

Mutati also called on CEC to collaborate with the Ministry in preparing for the World Skills Africa Competition, which would be held in Livingstone in April 2025.

He encouraged CEC to support the electrical engineering category to mentor young Zambians who would represent the country at the continental event.

CEC Chief Executive Officer, Owen Silavwe, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to partnering with the government, indicating that the company would consider supporting the World Skills Africa Competition.

World Skills Zambia Project Manager, Precious Lisulo, added that Zambian participants had already been selected from the National Skills Competition.

“Industry experts must now come on board to help the Ministry sharpen the skills of the youths so that they can make the country proud at the World Skills Africa Competition next year,” Lisulo said.

She also noted that Zambia would be sending youths to France next month to compete in the World Skills Competition in Lyon, which would serve as a preparation for the 2025 event in Livingstone.

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