Zambia’s power utility company – ZESCO Limited – has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with China Datang Corporation Limited, one of the largest energy suppliers in China, to develop energy projects in Zambia to address the power crisis being experienced by Zambians.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by the President of Zambia, H.E. Hakainde Hichilema, in Beijing, China.
ZESCO Limited has been rationing power due to shortfalls in power generation occasioned by drought which has limited water inflow into the Kariba dam.
Some parts of the country receive power supply for only three hours, while others endure 24 hours without power.
In a Facebook post after the signing of the agreement, President Hakainde Hichilema wrote: “We are determined to resolve this energy crisis.
“We have directed both Zesco and China Datang to immediately get down to work so that we can address the current energy deficit. China Datang offers the kind of energy mix that our country requires to diversify away from our country’s dependence on hydro energy.
“We have since concluded our mission here in Beijing and heading back home,” he concluded.
Commenting on the agreement, ZESCO wrote: “This partnership underscores Zambia’s commitment to enhancing its energy infrastructure and diversifying its energy sources.
“With this strategic partnership, Zambia is taking a significant step towards ensuring a reliable energy supply that will support economic growth and improve the quality of life for its citizens,” ZESCO said.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com