GOVERNMENT ENGAGES CHINA’S STARTIMES GROUP TO BOOST ZAMBIA’S SOLAR POWER GENERATION
GOVERNMENT ENGAGES CHINA’S STARTIMES GROUP TO BOOST ZAMBIA’S SOLAR POWER GENERATION
The government is in discussions with China’s StarTimes Group to explore the installation of a solar power plant aimed at enhancing the country’s electricity generation capacity.
Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa, who is also the Chief Government Spokesperson, stated that government has launched ambitious programs to diversify power generation by encouraging investments in solar and thermal energy. During a visit to sample solar equipment manufactured by StarTimes Group, Mr. Mweetwa reaffirmed President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to finding lasting solutions to the country’s power crisis, regardless of rainfall patterns.
“As a country, we must continue to expand investments in alternative power energy sources such as solar,” Mr. Mweetwa said. He added that the government is eager to partner with companies like StarTimes Group, which already has established ties with Zambia.
StarTimes Group Chairperson XinXing Pang expressed the company’s readiness to collaborate with the Zambian government on establishing solar plants to feed into the national grid. Mr. Pang emphasized the importance of investing in alternative power sources like solar, especially in the face of climate change.
“Hydropower is cost-effective but not sustainable, especially for rural areas not covered by the grid. Solar can bridge this gap,” Mr. Pang noted.
Presidential Delivery Unit Communication and Outreach Specialist Besa Kyanamina highlighted the potential for the media industry to benefit from StarTimes’ solar solutions, suggesting a transition from the current grid to off-grid alternatives.
“The media sector can learn and see how they can transition from current grid to off-grid solutions,” Ms. Kyanamina said.