KATOMBI MEETS INDIAN INVESTORS FOR 500MW SOLAR PROJECT
KATOMBI MEETS INDIAN INVESTORS FOR 500MW SOLAR PROJECT
Newly elected United Party for National Development (UPND) Serenje Constituency Member of Parliament, Bishop Friday Katombi (PhD), has met with a team of Indian investors seeking to establish 500 megawatts of solar power generation in his constituency.
In a media statement issued today following his visit to the area, Dr Katombi confirmed that the investors had expressed a strong desire to commit funds to Serenje within three months after the inauguration of President Hakainde Hichilema.
He noted that the devastating effects of the El Niño phenomenon, which has severely impacted hydroelectric power generation across the country, have underscored the urgent need for alternative clean energy sources.
Dr Katombi advanced that the investment portfolio would focus primarily on solar power generation and the agricultural sector.
He said that the initial plan is to set up 500 megawatts of solar power plants within Serenje Constituency as a reliable alternative to the struggling hydro-dependent national grid.
Dr Katombi affirmed that the Indian investors, operating through Southern Switch Gear Automation Limited, are eager to commence operations without undue delay after the presidential inauguration.
He emphasised that the solar initiative represents a significant step towards addressing the area’s energy deficits and creating local employment.
The lawmaker further stated that the agricultural component of the investment would aim to boost productivity and support local farmers, particularly in light of climate-induced weather disruptions.
He highlighted that the timing of the investment aligns with the new administration’s broader economic recovery goals and the pressing need to diversify the energy mix.
Dr Katombi reiterated that the projects would be implemented with transparency and in accordance with all regulatory requirements.
He assured residents that the initiative promises long-term benefits for Serenje, including job creation, improved energy access, and reduced reliance on rain-fed hydro power.
The MP called on the community to support the project, saying it would transform the constituency’s economic landscape and build resilience against climate shocks.
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