Zambia’s Energy Regulation Board (ERB) just approved 62 licenses and 8 construction permits in May 2025, totaling a combined investment worth over ZMW 11 billion ( around $370 million) across petroleum, electricity, and renewable energy projects.
ERB spokesperson, Namukolo Kasumpa, said that the development demonstrates ERB’s ongoing commitment to fostering a transparent and supportive regulatory environment in line with Zambia’s national energy policies.
“The steady growth in investments highlights the country’s favourable regulatory framework and the ERB’s efforts to streamline approval processes for investors to participate across the energy value chain,” said Kasumpa.
The Board indicated that the move is part of broader efforts to improve energy access, enhance operational efficiency, and attract greater private sector involvement in the country’s energy landscape.
The newly approved licences are for: the manufacture, installation, and maintenance of renewable energy systems, the transport and distribution of petroleum products, and the supply and distribution of electricity nationwide.
Makozo Chikote, Zambia’s Minister of Energy, said the country is focusing on using solar mini-grids to provide reliable electricity to rural areas.
“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,” said Makozo Chikote.
Recently, Chikote invited a UK-based firm, Echo Eight Investments Limited, to establish clean energy projects in the south African country.
The impact of the approved licenses
The approvals cover three major infrastructure projects in the electricity and renewable energy sectors:
The Kalumbila-Kolwezi Interconnector Project (KKIP):
A 200 kilometre, 330kV transmission line to be developed by Enterprise Power Zambia, valued at $270m. The project will connect Zambia to regional power markets, supporting cross-border electricity trade and improving energy security.
The 100MW solar power plant in Mumbwa:
This $75m project by Sun Share Energy aims to expand Zambia’s renewable energy capacity and reduce dependency on hydropower.
The 8MW off-grid solar PV plant with battery storage:
Located in North-Western Province, this $8m facility by Sany International (Zambia) includes 20MWh of battery storage and is intended to support local mining operations and deliver electricity to remote communities.
The ERB has authorized the use of 114 road tank vehicles to enhance fuel transport capacity in the petroleum sector.
The regulatory agency also approved the establishment of four new service stations to improve nationwide fuel access and delivery standards.
The approvals align with Zambia’s green growth compact, a £1 billion agreement with the UK to boost renewables in 2022, according to a report from Global Legal Insights.
