GreenCo Power Storage, a Zambian-based company is set to carry out a study feasibility of deploying large-scale electricity storage systems in Zambia.
The pilot project will be implemented in the Sesheke district. The system will store electricity generated by a solar photovoltaic plant. This storage facility will serve as a demonstrator for the development of 400 MWh of storage capacity throughout Zambia.
the implementation of the pilot project is expected to create 600 jobs in the short term and 20 more in the long term. The study will also include an economic and financial analysis for the operation of the pilot project and portfolio, as well as a business and market analysis.
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Universal electricity access
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) will award the funding for the project and the development of battery storage is expected to catalyze renewable energy production and diversify Zambia’s electricity mix.
Zambia has 2,800 MW of installed electricity generation capacity, of which 85% is hydro based. National access to electricity averages at 31% with 67% of the urban and 4% of the rural population having access to power.
The Government of Zambia set a goal for universal electricity access for all Zambians by 2030. Energy has been identified as an important driving force behind economic development in Zambia, and the government has declared its commitment to developing and maintaining energy infrastructure and services. The country is opening up to new IPPs for on-grid and off-grid transactions. The government expects to bring online additional MW of solar, hydro, and thermal power through 2030.