Clarence Chongo, KITWE, 3 November 2024 – At the just-ended Copperbelt Investment Forum that ran over two days starting 31 October 2024, Brian Mushimba, Ph.D. drove home a key message about his company’s pivotal role in Zambia’s energy sector. Addressing delegates at Kitwe’s Garden Court Hotel, Dr. Mushimba outlined Ndola Energy’s ongoing contributions to power delivery, economic growth, and regional collaboration. As he headlined alongside ZESCO Limited, Copperbelt Energy Corporation Plc (CEC) and the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), Dr. Mushimba answered some incisive questions on two discussion panels themed around the energy sector’s role in propelling economic recovery.
Since its establishment in 2010, Ndola Energy, a subsidiary of GL AFRICA ENERGY LIMITED, has positioned itself as a key player in Zambia’s drive toward energy security. Operating a 105 MW power plant in Ndola under a power purchase agreement with ZESCO, Ndola Energy ensures a consistent supply of electricity, assisting in the current attempts to bolster the stability of Zambia’s national grid. Dr. Mushimba emphasised that Ndola Energy’s commitment to energy reliability is not just about maintaining power but about fuelling economic activities that benefit communities across Zambia.
Partnerships and Policy Alignment
A defining aspect of Ndola Energy’s strategy, according to Dr. Mushimba, is its strong partnerships within both the public and private sectors. Ndola Energy has long collaborated with organisations like ZESCO and CEC, which fosters a cohesive approach to energy distribution and infrastructure. Such alliances enable the company to meet Zambia’s increasing power demands while aligning with national policy frameworks, such as the National Energy Policy 2021–2030 and the Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariff (ReFiT) Program.
Dr. Mushimba highlighted that through these partnerships, Ndola Energy has demonstrated the powerful impact of collaboration on Zambia’s energy and economy. Through advancing projects that not only align with policy but also promote sustainable energy sources, Ndola Energy helps Zambia diversify its energy mix and strengthen the national economy.
Advancing Energy Diversification and Innovation
In a region historically reliant on hydropower, Ndola Energy has embraced the need for diversification. Dr. Mushimba revealed Ndola Energy’s plan to integrate a 200 MW solar power facility with the existing 105MW thermal plant. This hybrid energy model is designed to stabilise the power supply by reducing dependency on single energy sources, especially critical during periods of drought or hydroelectric shortfalls.
Dr. Mushimba emphasised that this innovative approach aligns with Zambia’s broader energy diversification goals. The planned solar integration not only enhances energy stability but also lays the groundwork for potentially lower tariffs, making energy more accessible and affordable for Zambian consumers. Investing in both thermal and renewable energy sources ensures that Ndola Energy sets a path toward a balanced and resilient energy portfolio.
A Catalyst for Economic Growth and Job Creation
Ndola Energy’s influence extends well beyond power generation. As Dr. Mushimba pointed out, the company’s mission is closely tied to Zambia’s economic growth and job creation goals. The company aims to contribute more than 600MW to the national grid by 2030—a target that promises increased energy capacity, which in turn will help spur economic activity and employment opportunities.
Presently, 90% of Ndola Energy’s workforce comprises Zambian nationals, a fact that underscores the company’s dedication to local skill development and knowledge transfer. As the company scales its operations, it continues to offer local communities avenues for economic empowerment, further reinforcing its role in Zambia’s socio-economic landscape.
Regional Collaboration and Environmental Stewardship
Reflecting a commitment to regional stability, Ndola Energy also collaborates with entities like the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), a regional energy framework designed to enhance cooperation and electricity stability across Southern Africa. Dr. Mushimba noted that Ndola Energy’s participation in SAPP bolsters regional energy reliability, an outcome that benefits both Zambia and its neighbouring countries.
Furthermore, Ndola Energy is deeply invested in environmental sustainability. Since inception, the company has prioritised minimising its ecological footprint by implementing effective waste management practices and using advanced technology to address environmental concerns. The Ndola plant was initially established as an eco-friendly solution to repurpose residual heavy fuel oil (HFO) from the Indeni Refinery—a move that not only mitigated an environmental hazard but also provided much-needed energy to the national grid.
Towards a Sustainable Energy Future
Drawing his delivery to a conclusion, Dr. Mushimba emphasised Ndola Energy’s ongoing efforts to support Zambia’s energy transition through both technological innovation and collaborative partnerships. As a trusted energy provider, Ndola Energy exemplifies the impact of investing in diversified energy solutions. Its commitment to both economic growth and environmental sustainability marks Ndola Energy as a forward-thinking leader in Zambia’s energy market.
At the Copperbelt Investment Forum, Dr. Mushimba’s remarks underscored Ndola Energy’s integral role in Zambia’s future. Through investment, innovation, and collaboration, the company continues to pave the way for a sustainable energy future in Zambia and beyond.
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