Energy Expert, Johnstone Chikwanda, has welcomed the signing of multiple power purchase agreements with micro-generators and power developers under the Presidential Solar Initiative, which will add a combined 320MW of clean energy to the national grid.
Dr. Chikwanda emphasized that continued investment in solar energy is a crucial step towards enhancing energy security and reducing reliance on traditional power sources.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka, Dr. Chikwanda noted that the disruptions in public service delivery caused by the ongoing energy crisis will be alleviated once solar installation projects on public buildings are commissioned.
“The recent sector reforms, including easing regulatory hurdles, implementing net metering, and promoting open access initiatives, are creating opportunities for more players to enter the energy sector,” said Dr. Chikwanda.
He called for improved quality in power purchase agreements to enable developers secure project financing more efficiently.
By Melissa Zaza
