The government of Zambia partnered with academia and international cooperating partners to launch the Energy Efficiency Lighting for Clean Energy Transition in Zambia (ELECT) Project, a new initiative designed to boost energy efficiency, strengthen local technical skills and support the country’s shift toward sustainable energy systems.
At the official launch, Energy Minister Makozo Chikote, speaking through Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary for Electricity Engineer Arnold Simwaba, said the initiative represents a concrete step toward translating energy policy into practical action.
He explained that although government investment in electricity generation and energy diversification remains a priority, managing demand through measures such as efficient lighting is equally important. According to the minister, such interventions can ease strain on the national power grid, reduce household and business electricity costs, and improve overall system stability.
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ELECT Project
Chikote said the ELECT Project supports Zambia’s broader policy framework, including the National Energy Policy of 2019 and the Energy Efficiency Strategy and Action Plan of 2022, both of which promote sustainable and efficient energy use.
He further stressed that the success of the energy transition depends on people as much as technology. The project, he said, will help strengthen university curricula, introduce modern training approaches and expand applied research, ensuring the country develops the skilled workforce and institutional capacity needed for a cleaner energy future.
Mulungushi University Vice-Chancellor Professor Royson Mukwena expressed appreciation to the European Union for funding the initiative, noting that it complements Zambia’s development goals. He emphasised the role of higher learning institutions in sustaining national projects by training work-ready graduates and producing research that informs policy and innovation. Professor Mukwena reaffirmed the university’s commitment to collaborating with government and development partners to enhance technical expertise and support long-term human capital growth.
Finnish Ambassador to Zambia Ms Saana Halinen said the three-year project is expected to stimulate innovation and deepen cooperation among academic institutions, the private sector and policymakers. Meanwhile, European Union Representative Massimo Bonannini reiterated the EU’s continued support for Zambia’s energy sector, highlighting energy-efficient lighting as a practical solution for improving electricity access and building a more reliable, resilient and sustainable power system.
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