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Zambia has launched the Presidential Solar Initiative, a program aimed at installing 50 MW of solar capacity to power schools, hospitals, and other public institutions across the country. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with Accura Logistics and Baker Global Capital Africa.

According to local reports, the project will focus on the eastern province, targeting a total of 209 public institutions to receive clean energy infrastructure. The move is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance access to electricity in underserved regions through sustainable energy.

Zambian Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote recently used social media to call on international investors to establish joint ventures with local companies, emphasizing the importance of local participation in achieving Zambia’s long-term energy goals.

The initiative follows the recent completion of the 100 MW Chisamba solar farm by state utility Zesco in southern Zambia—the largest grid-connected solar facility in the country. A second 100 MW phase is currently under development.

Zambia has set an ambitious target to add 1 GW of solar capacity by the end of 2025, as part of its longer-term vision to reach 10 GW by 2030. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the country's cumulative installed solar capacity stood at 196 MW at the end of 2023.

This new initiative underscores Zambia’s commitment to clean energy expansion, rural electrification, and public infrastructure development through strategic public-private partnerships.