Bridging Borders with Renewable Energy: ACES’s Zambia-DRC Solar Initiative

In the face of growing industrial energy demands in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), ACES Renewables is pioneering a transformative cross-border energy solution. Our latest initiative, a 25 MW solar power project in Kazungula, Zambia, is strategically designed to enhance energy stability and sustainability in the region. By supplying clean, renewable energy to industrial clients and mines, the project not only strengthens economic development but also reduces reliance on fossil fuels, making a significant contribution to environmental sustainability.

The Scope of the Zambia-DRC Project

The Kazungula Solar PV Project is a groundbreaking renewable energy initiative set to generate 28 MWp of solar power, producing an estimated 46,860,200 kWh annually. This energy will be wheeled to a copper-belt mine in Zambia, ensuring a stable power supply for a critical industrial operation. The project aims to address multiple challenges, including energy shortages, high operational costs for mining companies, and environmental concerns related to fossil fuel dependency. By integrating solar power into the region's energy mix, ACES Renewables is contributing to a more resilient and sustainable industrial sector.

Beyond the direct benefits to the mining industry, the project is set to alleviate grid pressure by adding clean energy to Zambia's power infrastructure. Studies conducted during the feasibility phase have indicated that the Kazungula solar project will help mitigate load shedding, a persistent issue affecting businesses and households alike. Additionally, the project's commitment to economic empowerment is evident in its job creation potential. During the construction phase, approximately 120 jobs will be created, with a focus on youth (25 positions) and women (40 positions). Once operational, the project will maintain 20 direct jobs and create an estimated 50 indirect employment opportunities, further stimulating local economies.

Strategic Partnerships and Negotiations

The successful implementation of this cross-border energy initiative relies on strategic partnerships and regulatory agreements. ACES Renewables has collaborated with the Victoria Falls University of Technology, local consultants, and regulatory bodies such as ZESCO, the Ministry of Energy, and the Zambia Environmental Management Agency (ZEMA). These partnerships ensure compliance with national energy policies and facilitate the necessary infrastructure for energy distribution.

Key regulatory milestones have already been achieved, including a letter from the Ministry of Energy granting permission for feasibility studies and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ZESCO for grid access. Additionally, ACES Renewables has established agreements with an industrial off-taker in the copper belt, securing a long-term power purchase agreement (PPA). Such collaborations not only expedite project development but also enhance its financial viability and long-term sustainability.

Regional and Environmental Impact

The Kazungula Solar PV Project is poised to deliver substantial economic and environmental benefits to Zambia and the wider region. From an economic perspective, the project supports job creation, skill development, and local business growth. With over 25 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) expected to benefit from increased energy access, the project aligns with broader national objectives for economic diversification and industrial expansion.

Moreover, ACES Renewables is committed to social responsibility initiatives that extend beyond energy production. Recognising the barriers to secondary education for girls in Zambia, the project stakeholders have pledged to contribute to scholarship programs that support female students from disadvantaged backgrounds. This initiative, in collaboration with the Victoria Falls University of Technology, underscores ACES's holistic approach to sustainable development, integrating education and community empowerment into its energy projects.

On the environmental front, the project will significantly reduce carbon emissions by replacing carbon-intensive power sources with clean solar energy. By supporting Zambia’s transition toward renewable energy, the initiative contributes to national and global climate goals, including those outlined in the Paris Agreement. Additionally, the Environmental Management Plan (EMPr) ensures that the project is implemented with minimal ecological impact, safeguarding local biodiversity and promoting responsible land use.

ACES Renewables continues to lead the charge in Africa's renewable energy transformation, and the Kazungula Solar PV Project is a testament to its innovative and impactful approach. By leveraging strategic partnerships, prioritising social and economic development, and committing to sustainability, this initiative is setting a new standard for cross-border energy solutions. As industrial demands in Zambia and the DRC grow, projects like this will play a crucial role in ensuring energy security while fostering economic and environmental progress.

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ACES Renewables is a premier provider of renewable energy solutions across Africa, specialising in solar, battery storage, biomass, and biogas projects. With over 15 years of experience, we are driving the continent’s energy transition through innovative and sustainable clean energy solutions.

Our expertise spans end-to-end project execution, including engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC), energy optimisation, and advanced storage solutions. With a proven track record and strong local partnerships, ACES Renewables delivers scalable projects that address Africa’s growing energy needs while promoting environmental sustainability and economic growth.

By consistently demonstrating the success and impact of our projects, ACES Renewables is attracting forward-thinking investors eager to participate in Africa’s energy future. Our strategic vision and commitment to excellence position us as a trusted partner for those seeking to contribute to a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous continent.

More importantly

WE GET IT DONE

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