Electricity trade in Zambia expands

In Zambia, regional electricity trade is opening new opportunities for independent producers, as shown by recent agreements. Africa GreenCo, a regional electricity trader, signed a power purchase agreement (PPA) with AXIAN Energy for the Kudu project, which has a capacity of 200 MWac (240 MWdc). This agreement was made during the Energy Forum for Africa in Lusaka.

PPA model reduces financial risks

The PPA allows GreenCo to buy about 530 GWh of electricity each year for resale to various clients, including through the Southern Africa Power Pool (SAPP). This model helps reduce commercial risks for lenders, making energy projects more likely to secure financing.

Zambia's successful energy financing

This approach has already worked in Zambia. In May 2025, a 13-year PPA with GreenCo helped secure a 71.5 million USD bank loan for the Chisamba solar power plant (100 MW), which was completed the same year. In January 2026, the Ilute project (32 MWp) also got 26.5 million USD in financing without needing guarantees from the government.

AXIAN Energy's expansion across Africa

AXIAN Energy is growing its presence across Africa. The Kudu project continues the company's recent expansion in Zambia, starting with the acquisition of 85.6% of the Bangweulu solar power plant (54.3 MWp) in October 2025. This expansion is not limited to Southern Africa.

Financing for projects in Senegal and beyond

In March 2026, AXIAN Energy secured 72 million euros (about 80.75 million USD) for its Kolda solar power plant in Senegal, a 60 MWp and 72 MWh storage project. The company also obtained a 60 million USD facility from Mauritius Commercial Bank to support its development across the continent.