ENGIE Energy Access Begins Construction of 15 Solar Mini-Grids in Zambia

MySol Grid Zambia, a unit of ENGIE Energy Access, is responsible for constructing, owning, operating, and maintaining these mini-grids.

ENGIE Energy Access, Africa’s leading provider of Pay-As-You-Go (PAYGO) and mini-grid solutions, has officially commenced the construction of 15 solar mini-grids in Zambia's Eastern Province. This initiative is a key component of the Increase Access to Electricity and Renewable Energy Production (IAEREP) programme, funded by the 11th European Development Fund and the European Union.

By expanding off-grid energy solutions in Zambia, ENGIE Energy Access aims to provide reliable electricity to underserved families and small businesses, thereby fostering economic growth and improving socio-economic welfare in local communities.

“We are excited to announce this significant milestone, which brings ENGIE Energy Access closer to achieving its goal of operating 60 mini-grids across five provinces in Zambia. This project supports several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 7, by delivering affordable, reliable, and sustainable clean energy to 40,000 people living in rural areas. Our work is an important element of the national electrification plans, and we are committed to collaborating with the authorities to expand energy access and promote sustainable development in Zambia,” said Gillian-Alexandre Huart, CEO of ENGIE Energy Access.

MySol Grid Zambia, a unit of ENGIE Energy Access, is responsible for constructing, owning, operating, and maintaining these mini-grids. This ensures that residential, commercial, and productive-use customers have access to dependable and renewable power along with value-adding services.

The first sites in this groundbreaking project include Lusinde, Kandongwa, Nyimba Mwana, Chidiwa, Chataika, Kanyanga, Petulo, Kasamba, Chidiwa, Mphole, Mung’omba, Kalambana, Mtore, Kondwelani, Lunga, and Luamphande. These mini-grids are scheduled to be operational by the end of 2024.

In 2023, MySol Grid Zambia secured a USD 7.5 million debt facility with the Facility for Energy Inclusion (FEI), managed by Cygnum Capital. This funding will provide the necessary resources and flexibility to construct a total of 60 mini-grids under the IAEREP programme. This is a significant advancement for the mini-grid sector, with these assets attracting non-recourse long-term financing.

ENGIE Energy Access established its presence in Zambia in 2017. The company currently employs over 250 people, works with 650 independent sales agents, and maintains more than 60 points of presence across the country. To date, the company has sold over 300,000 solar home systems (SHS) kits and has one operational mini-grid in Chitandika.