- Zambia state owned energy utility, ZESCO Limited, has secures power supply from South Africa with Support from GreenCo and First Quantum Minerals in a second import deal this year.
- A 250MW power export deal was covertly struck between South Africa’s new National Transmission Company and Zesco in August. Read more
- ZESCO, with financial backing from GreenCo Power Services Limited (GreenCo) and First Quantum Minerals Ltd (FQM), has secured additional electricity imports from South Africa to help alleviate Zambia’s energy crisis, driven by record low water levels at Lake Kariba, the country’s main hydroelectric source. Read more
- The news comes sh
This tripartite collaboration will start with 125MW of additional power imports, with potential to increase to 250MW and expand to other GreenCo clients. GreenCo and FQM will fully finance these emergency imports. Of the 125MW, 40MW will be allocated to FQM, with 85MW supplied to Zambia’s national grid to support households, hospitals, and businesses. ZESCO has committed to gradually returning this electricity to GreenCo once hydropower capacity is restored, expected in 2025.
“This partnership demonstrates how the public and private sectors can collaborate to secure vital energy supplies for both industrial and residential users,” said Wezi Gondwe, GreenCo’s Head of Business Development and Executive Director. “By supporting ZESCO, we’re ensuring stable power for Zambian industries and residents.”
FQM, a major mining company and power consumer in Zambia, will maintain its operations while contributing to domestic energy supply, reducing the impact of load shedding for the country. “First Quantum is dedicated to Zambia’s economic and energy stability,” said Anthony Mukutuma, Zambia Director at FQM. “This agreement supports our operations while easing pressure on the national grid.”
This initiative aligns with FQM’s broader commitment to Zambia, including its $1.35 billion investments in projects like the Kansanshi mine S3 Expansion and Enterprise nickel mine. These developments strengthen Zambia’s role in global copper and nickel production, crucial for renewable energy supply and global decarbonization. GreenCo’s role goes beyond financing. By blending imported and local power generation, GreenCo ensures a stable electricity supply for FQM in the medium term. Over the past year, GreenCo has worked closely with ZESCO to devise creative solutions to the country’s electricity challenges. As a member of the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), GreenCo facilitates regional power trading, essential during energy crises and for developing Zambia’s energy resources.
“We thank Eskom for their critical support during this challenging period, and GreenCo and FQM for their financial assistance. We also express gratitude to the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) and neighboring utilities for their cooperation in ensuring regional energy stability,” said Engineer Victor Mapani, Managing Director ZESCO.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
