Nambia Fast-Tracks Solar Project Approvals

Key Figures & Findings: Zambia’s Ministry of Energy, led by Minister Peter Kapala, has introduced a fast-track 48-hour approval window for solar project applications, down from an average of six to nine months. The decision, announced at the Energy Capital & Power Forum in Lusaka, is aimed at accelerating Zambia’s ambition to deploy 1,000 MW of new solar generation by 2025.The move is part of broader efforts to diversify Zambia's energy sector, which currently relies heavily on hydropower—a dependency that has proven problematic during droughts, such as the one experienced in 2024. Minister Chikote emphasized the government's commitment to creating a transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly environment for solar developers.

Statistics & Insights: The streamlined approval process is designed to accelerate the deployment of solar energy projects, contributing to the national target of solar power by December 2025. This policy change is expected to unlock more capital, boost solar deployment, and improve energy access across the country.​

Future Implications: If implemented effectively, Zambia’s 48-hour solar approval policy could attract significant local and international private-sector solar investments by mid-2026, particularly from IPPs targeting commercial and industrial demand. The reform could also serve as a regional blueprint, with neighboring countries likely to observe its impact on grid reliability and investor confidence by 2025–2027.

Source: Energy Capital & Power