Zambia is stepping up its drive towards universal energy access, partnering with leading international organisations to deliver off-grid solar solutions to 8.5 million citizens by 2030.
Leveraging partnerships with the World Bank, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the Africa Minigrid Development Association (AMDA), the Government of Zambia aims to decentralise energy access and bring clean electricity to even the most remote communities.
Makozo Chikote, Zambia’s Minister of Energy, outlined the government’s ambition:
“Our target is to have at least 200 solar mini-grids operational by 2030, ensuring that every rural district in Zambia has access to clean, affordable, and reliable electricity.”
Tackling Energy Poverty with Solar Innovation
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Although Zambia has made substantial progress, raising electricity access from 30% in 2017 to nearly 50% today, half of the population remains off-grid. The country’s heavy dependence on hydropower (80% of electricity generation) has exposed vulnerabilities, particularly during periods of drought, prompting a decisive shift toward solar and decentralised energy solutions.
Solar home systems and mini-grids—small-scale electricity generation and storage systems capable of powering entire villages—are emerging as the most cost-effective and scalable way to connect Zambia’s dispersed rural populations.
However, mini-grid developers face significant financial and technical challenges. To address these obstacles, the World Bank’s Energy Sector Management Assistance Program (ESMAP), COMESA, and AMDA are hosting a conference in Lusaka to bring together developers, financiers, and policymakers. The goal is to accelerate the deployment of off-grid solar projects and unlock new investment opportunities.
Energy Access as a Catalyst for Development
Achim Fock, World Bank Country Manager for Zambia, emphasised the broader impact of energy access:
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“It improves health, creates jobs, and lifts people out of poverty.”
He also highlighted Zambia’s role in Mission 300, a joint initiative led by the World Bank Group and the African Development Bank aiming to connect 300 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa to electricity by 2030.
Given Zambia’s low population density—averaging 24 inhabitants per square kilometre—traditional grid extension remains costly and logistically challenging. Hence, off-grid solutions are critical for achieving universal electrification.
Projects Powering Zambia’s Energy Transition
The World Bank is actively supporting Zambia’s energy transition through initiatives such as the Electricity Services Access Project (ESAP) and the Zambia-Tanzania Interconnector Project (ZTIP), which seek to expand affordable and sustainable energy access.
Data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) shows that Zambia’s renewable energy capacity has increased by 34% since 2015, largely due to hydropower investments. With a renewed focus on solar and mini-grids, Zambia is poised to further diversify its energy mix, enhance resilience, and drive socio-economic development.
Lighting Up the Future
As Zambia advances towards its 2030 electrification goal, off-grid solar solutions are set to play a pivotal role in transforming rural livelihoods, boosting economic opportunities, and building climate resilience. Through innovative partnerships and targeted investments, the country is laying the groundwork for a sustainable, inclusive energy future.
