Zambia Boosts Renewable Energy Drive with 16 MW Lifesong Solar Power Plant in Copperbelt Province

Zambia’s drive to generate 1,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power by the end of 2025 is gaining momentum, with the Lifesong Northrise 16 MW Solar Power Plant (Phase 1) in Ndola, Copperbelt Province, emerging as a key milestone in the nation’s renewable energy expansion.

The privately led project is set to supply much-needed electricity to the national grid, easing Zambia’s energy deficit and supporting industrial and economic growth.

On 10 October 2025, ZESCO Limited hosted a media tour of the Lifesong site to highlight its collaboration with the private sector in scaling up renewable energy generation.

ZESCO Board Chairperson Mr. Vickson Ncube emphasized the critical role of private investment in meeting Zambia’s growing energy demand.

“People are building homes across Zambia — from 2022 to date, ZESCO has connected over 400,000 households to the grid, translating to about 350 MW of new demand. Mines are reopening and require power to operate,” said Mr. Ncube. “Without corresponding growth on the supply side, the system will struggle. I commend Lifesong and their team for supporting our shared vision of energy security.”

The 16 MW plant is scheduled for completion by December 2025, with commissioning and power evacuation expected to begin in early 2026, according to project contractor Mr. Dirk Fourie.

Lifesong is one of 19 successful bidders from ZESCO’s 2024 tender for 300 MW of grid-tied solar projects, an initiative designed to accelerate renewable energy generation through private sector participation.

Kiyona Energy Limited CEO, Engineer Clement Siame, praised the government’s efforts to attract investment through the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO) framework.

“Today, we see the tangible results of that vision,” said Siame. “Lifesong’s success reflects innovation, resilience, and the power of collaboration between government and private enterprise.”

The Lifesong Northrise project marks another step forward in Zambia’s transition toward sustainable, locally driven power generation — a cornerstone of its goal to achieve national energy self-sufficiency.