Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has approved 35 licences and 15 construction permits in the petroleum, electricity, and renewable energy sub-sectors, representing a combined investment value of over K6.5 billion.
Out of the 35 approved licences, key activities include 15 for the manufacture, supply, installation, and maintenance of renewable energy generating equipment, 9 for road transportation of petroleum products, 4 for the distribution, import, and export of petroleum products.
Others are 1 for wholesale marketing of petroleum products, 1 for retail of petroleum products, 1 for production of biofuels as alternatives to charcoal, 1 for electricity generation, 1 for supply of electricity, and 1 for distribution of electricity.
According to a statement issued by ERB Public Relations Manager Namukolo Kasumpa, the approvals were made during the Board’s Licensing Committee meeting held on 15th October 2025.
Mrs. Kasumpa said the move underscores continued investor confidence in Zambia’s energy sector and highlights the country’s favourable regulatory environment.
“Furthermore, the steady growth in investments highlights the country’s favourable regulatory framework and the ERB’s efforts to streamline approval processes,” Mrs. Kasumpa stated.
She emphasized that the licences play a critical role in ensuring energy availability, enhancing operational efficiency and promoting access to modern energy services and equipment across the country.
“In terms of infrastructure development, two major construction permits were approved in the electricity and renewable energy sub-sector namely: Maamba Solar Energy Limited – A proposed 118.4 MWp / 100 MWac Solar, Photovoltaic (PV) Power Plant at an approximate cost of investment of US$90 million. The proposed power plant will be located in Maamba Area of Sinazongwe District.”
“United Capital Fertilizer Zambia Company Limited – A proposed 50 MW Steam Turbine Generator Project for own use at an approximate cost of investment of 70million United States Dollars. The power plant will provide dedicated power to the fertilizer production plant in Lusaka District,” she stressed.
Mrs. Kasumpa added that the Board further awarded licensed 60 road tank vehicles to strengthen petroleum product transportation across the country, while three newly constructed service stations were authorized to begin operations.
“These developments reflect the ERB’s ongoing commitment to promoting a transparent and supportive regulatory environment that encourages sustainable investments in line with national energy policies.”
“To maintain this momentum, the ERB remains focused on strengthening investor confidence through predictable, safe and efficient regulatory processes that support timely application reviews and project implementation,” Mrs. Kasumpa added.
