South African firm Gridbow Engineers has scooped a tender to supply affordable solar energy to farm blocks not serviced by ZESCO.
Initial targeting Nansanga, Luena, Manshya and Lusiwasi farm blocks, the US$30 million project expects to meet electricity demand for farms off the national power grid.
The development is part of efforts to diversify the economy, collaborated through the Ministry of Agriculture.
Evans Chabata, Gribow Enginners Chief Operations Officer said the rollout will involve the supply of electricity to the farm blocks using containerised solutions, generating and storing electricity from solar energy.
“The project will offer various economic benefits in the energy sector by meeting the country’s growing energy needs and contribute to the diversification of the economy though the provision of reliable power supply.
“Agriculture can be a positive driver of food security, environmental sustainability and economic opportunity,” Chabata said.
Funded by Gridbow Engineers through Hong Kong financiers, the project is expected to benefit rural households and government institutions.
