Zambia is actively working to increase electricity access, targeting universal coverage by 2030. The ASCENT Zambia project, supported by a $200 million World Bank grant, aims to connect over one million Zambians, particularly in remote and underserved areas, while providing reliable power to businesses and industries to stimulate economic growth and job creation . Currently, electricity access stands at 31 percent nationally, with 67 percent of urban and only 4 percent of rural populations connected . The government's National Vision 2030 aligns with these efforts, emphasizing sustainable energy for all.
Zambia's energy sector is dominated by hydropower, which accounts for over 80 percent of electricity generation, leveraging the country's abundant water resources, including the Zambezi River and Kariba Dam . The country also invests in solar energy, with projects like the Kitwe solar plants expanding capacity from 34 MW to 94 MW in 2024 . Coal, heavy fuel oil, and biomass supplement the energy mix, while petroleum remains fully imported . Zambia possesses approximately 6,000 MW of untapped hydropower potential, positioning it as a regional energy leader within the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), .
Zambia is embracing cutting-edge energy technologies, including smart grids, energy storage, and renewable integration. Collaborations with international initiatives, such as the German Energy Solutions Initiative, facilitate the adoption of advanced climate-friendly energy systems, fuel cells, green hydrogen, and Power-to-Gas technologies . These innovations enhance grid reliability, optimize renewable energy use, and support sustainable industrial growth.
Zambia actively participates in regional energy trade through licensed power traders, exporting electricity to neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa, and importing from Mozambique . This integration strengthens energy security, promotes cross-border cooperation, and positions Zambia as a key player in Southern Africa's energy network.
The country is also addressing climate-related challenges, such as droughts that impact hydropower generation, by diversifying its energy portfolio with solar, wind, and biofuels . Government policies, including the Renewable Energy Feed-In Tariff (REFiT) Strategy and frameworks for off-grid renewable projects, encourage private investment and community-managed energy solutions . These measures ensure Zambia's energy sector remains resilient, sustainable, and capable of supporting economic development. Zambia's combination of abundant hydropower, renewable energy diversification, smart grid adoption, and international collaboration makes its energy sector uniquely positioned as a leading model for sustainable and reliable electricity access in Africa.
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