The Kafue Gorge Regional Training Centre (KGRTC) in Collboration with the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) Launched The highly anticipated "Building Bankable Solar PV Projects: Power Purchase Agreements and Financial Modelling" workshop officially commenced in Livingstone, Zambia, on February 24, 2025. The event, graced by esteemed dignitaries, industry experts, and key stakeholders in the energy sector, set a firm foundation for a week of insightful discussions and hands-on learning.
Registration and Opening Sessions
Participants began arriving early in the morning at the training venue, eager to engage in the transformative sessions ahead. The registration process, handled efficiently by the secretariat, ensured a seamless check-in experience for attendees. After a brief health break, the training commenced with an engaging session on Solar Energy and Global Trends, delivered by GreenCo's Director of Programme. This session provided a comprehensive overview of the current state of solar energy worldwide, highlighting technological advancements, policy frameworks, and investment opportunities shaping the industry.
Stakeholders and Industry Insights
Following this, Dr. Davy K. Manyika took the floor to discuss the Stakeholders in Solar Projects. His presentation outlined the crucial roles of financiers, developers, independent power producers (IPPs), and regulators in fostering successful solar initiatives. The subsequent discussion session, moderated by Eng. Bright Sepiso, allowed participants to delve deeper into the complexities of stakeholder collaboration and effective project execution.
Arrival of the Guest of Honor
The official opening of the workshop was marked by the arrival of the Guest of Honor, Hon. Minister of Energy, Mr. Makozo Chikote, MP, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of Southern Province, Dr. Namani Monze. The proceedings commenced with the national anthem and a prayer led by Ms. Caroline Katotobwe, setting a solemn yet enthusiastic tone for the event.
Eng. Bright Sepiso provided an overview of the programme, emphasizing the critical role financial modelling and power purchase agreements (PPAs) play in ensuring bankable solar PV projects. This was followed by remarks from Mr. Davies Chinkusu, Director/CEO of KGRTC, and Prof. Christopher Chembe, representing NIPA’s Executive Director, Prof. Jacob R.S. Malungo. Both speakers reaffirmed their institutions’ commitment to capacity building and sustainable energy solutions.
Keynote Address and Industry Perspectives
Kicking off the speeches, Mr. Justin Loongo, Managing Director of ZESCO (represented by Eng. Wesley Lwiindi), delivered a session on ZESCO’s role in the energy mix, shedding light on the utility’s strategy for integrating solar power into Zambia’s national grid.
An insightful presentation by Mr. Victor Chingangu from the Ministry of Energy, provided an Overview of Renewable Energy in Zambia, outlining government policies and ongoing initiatives aimed at expanding the sector. His address set the stage for The keynote speech delivered by Dr. Namani Monze underscored the Zambian government’s dedication to renewable energy development and the importance of fostering investment-ready solar projects.
As the first day drew to a close, participants left with a deeper understanding of the solar energy landscape, equipped with knowledge and inspiration to engage in the subsequent training sessions. The stage was set for an intensive week of learning, collaboration, and progress toward bankable solar PV projects in Zambia.
