Choma District is set to benefit from a major renewable energy project following the approval of a 60 megawatt-peak Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Power Plant with a 5MW/20MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB).
The project forms part of 29 licences and five construction permits approved by the ERB’s Licensing Committee on 13 February 2026, representing a total investment commitment of K2.45 billion, across the petroleum, electricity and renewable energy sub-sectors.
ERB Manager-Public Relations, Namukolo Kasumpa said the 60MWp solar plant in Choma is expected to significantly boost power generation and contribute to improved grid stability through the integrated battery storage system.
Mrs. Kasumpa revealed that the Committee also approved three petroleum retail service stations and a 960,000 litres Fuel Depot in, Barlastone, Lusaka.
She added that 11 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) retail kiosks and eight newly constructed service stations were authorized to commence operations, strengthening energy access and service delivery across the country.
“The approved licences include 12 for the manufacture, supply, installation and maintenance of renewable energy generating equipment; 12)for the distribution, importation and exportation of petroleum products; One for the combined generation, distribution and supply of electricity; and four for the importation, packaging, blending, distribution and export of lubricants. In addition, 137 road tank vehicles were licensed enhance petroleum transportation,” she stated.
Mrs. Kasumpa noted that the approvals reflect continued investor confidence in Zambia’s energy sector and reaffirm the Borad’s commitment to maintaining a transparent, predictable and efficient regulatory environment.
“They also reinforce regulatory certainty and policy stability for investors, while enhancing energy service reliability and affordable pricing for consumers,” Mrs. Kasumpa added.
“The ERB will continue to facilitate responsible sector growth through timely regulatory decisions that promote competition, innovation and long-term sustainability in Zambia’s energy markets.”
