Navitas Planet bags $20m solar EPC project in Zambia

LUSAKA – Zambia’s drive towards a diversified and resilient energy sector has received a significant boost with the announcement that Navitas Planet, the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) division of Indian solar module manufacturer Navitas Solar, has been awarded a $20 million contract. This landmark agreement is for the development of a 54-megawatt (MW) utility-scale solar power plant situated in the Serenje Province. The project is poised to significantly enhance Zambia's renewable energy capacity, contributing to the nation's strategic goals of energy security and sustainability. The new solar facility will incorporate advanced bifacial TOPCon modules, a cutting-edge technology designed to capture sunlight from both sides of the panel, thereby maximising energy generation efficiency. Navitas Planet will oversee the entire project lifecycle, from engineering and procurement to construction and commissioning. This venture represents a crucial first step for Navitas Planet into the burgeoning African utility-scale EPC market, underscoring the growing international confidence in Zambia's renewable energy potential. The company anticipates completing the project within an ambitious timeframe of seven to eight months, promising a swift addition of clean energy to the national grid. Zambia's energy landscape has historically been heavily reliant on hydropower, with over 80% of its electricity generation stemming from this source. While abundant, this dependence leaves the nation vulnerable to climatic shocks, particularly droughts, which can severely impact power supply and economic stability. The Serenje project is a direct response to this challenge, forming a vital component of Zambia's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and the Presidential 1,000 MW Solar Initiative. These national strategies aim to diversify the energy mix, enhance grid resilience, and ensure a stable power supply for both industrial and domestic consumers. Beyond its immediate energ