A PRIVATE developer, Metrogold Limited plans to set up a multimillion dollar 200 megawatt photovoltaic solar project in Luanshya.
The facility was aimed at contributing to the development of the renewable energy sector and help improve energy security in Zambia
Metrogold executive director Moses Tembo said the project will cost US$260 million and provide solar energy to the entire Copperbelt and Northern regions.
Mr Tembo told ZANIS in Luanshya that his company had engaged the district administration to secure an estimated 460 hectares of land for the project.
He said the project had also engaged key stakeholders such at the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), ZESCO, Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA) Copperbelt Energy Company (CEC) and the ministry of Lands.
Once implemented, the project would help foster economic growth, raise living standards and reduce poverty through the creation of jobs among other benefits.
Mr Tembo further observed that the project was in line with the government’s overall energy objective of improving delivery of energy services through increased electricity generation capacity and electrification level.
And Luanshya acting district administration officer Dieu-Donne Lupasha said the district would engage relevant stakeholders to ensure the setting up of the solar energy plant-project succeeded
Mr Lupasha said the setting up of the multimillion dollar project would revive the economic activities of the district.
