22 AUGUST 2024
Government has encouraged the Copperbelt Energy Corporation PLC (CEC) to invest more in renewable energy as a proactive measure to prevent future energy crises.
CEC currently has two solar power plants generating 94 megawatts of power.
The Company has already commenced preparations for the second phase of its Itimpi Solar Power Project, with the capacity to produce 136-megawatts.
The project is expected to be fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2025.
Technology and Science Minister Hon. Felix Mutati says renewable energy sources are the best alternative to hydro electricity as they are not negatively affected by climate change.
Mr. Mutati says the current energy crisis has presented an opportunity for the country to diversify it’s energy sources and invest more in electricity generation.
Speaking when he paid a courtesy call on CEC Chief Executive Officer Owen Silavwe in Kitwe this morning, Mr. Mutati emphasised the importance of prioritising renewable energy as the future source of power.
He called on the Copperbelt Energy Corporation to also partner with the Ministry in preparing for the hosting of the World Skills Africa Competition which will be held in Livingstone in April 2025.
Mr. Mutati guided CEC to support the electrical engineering category in order to mentor young people who will represent Zambia at the continental event.
And Copperbelt Energy Corporation Chief Executive Officer Owen Silavwe said CEC is an all-weather partner of the government and will consider its support towards the world skills africa competition
Meanwhile, World Skills Zambia Project Manager Precious Lisulo said Zambian participants have already been chosen from the recently held National Skills Competition.
Ms. Lisulo said industry experts must now come on board to help the Ministry sharpen the skills of the youths so that they can make the country proud at the World Skills Africa Competition next year.
She disclosed that Zambia is next month sending youths to France to compete at the World Skills Competition to be held in the city of Lyon.
Ms. Lisulo said Zambia will use the French event as a preparation for the World Skills Africa Competition to be hosted in Livingstone in April 2025.
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