Cape Town, South Africa – Copperbelt Energy Corporation PLC (CEC) Managing Director, Owen Silavwe, issued a strong call for accelerated private-sector investment in Zambia’s power sector to support the country’s ambition to increase copper production to 3 million metric tonnes annually by 2031.

Speaking during the Zambia Country Showcase at the Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town, Silavwe recognised the Zambian Government’s bold growth agenda and progressive reforms, particularly in the mining and energy sectors, which are significantly strengthening the country’s investment climate. He noted that Zambia continues to distinguish itself in the region through policy liberalisation and the implementation of open access in the electricity market—clear signals of its pro-business stance.

“If we are to support the mining sector’s ambition of producing three million metric tonnes of copper annually by 2031, we must accelerate the development of energy infrastructure,” said Silavwe. “This will require mobilising close to US$12 billion in investment and delivering 10 gigawatts of new generation capacity by 2030.”

He emphasised that the mining sector’s expansion—and Zambia’s broader economic transformation—will ultimately depend on the power sector’s ability to deliver reliable, scalable, and diversified energy supply.

Mr. Silavwe highlighted CEC’s role as a leading private energy provider and long-standing partner to Zambia’s mining industry. The Company is currently advancing the development of over 250MW of renewable energy capacity and continues to strengthen cross-border transmission infrastructure. Through its active participation in the Southern African Power Pool, CEC also plays a pivotal role in facilitating regional energy trading and enhancing power security.

Reflecting on recent supply constraints, Silavwe noted that the challenges experienced have sharpened the focus of both public and private stakeholders. “The experience of supply gaps has awakened both public and private stakeholders to the urgency—and the opportunity—before us. This is not merely a crisis; it is a catalyst to reimagine and accelerate Zambia’s energy future,” he said.

Zambia’s forward-looking Integrated Resource Plan provides a critical framework for aligning power sector expansion with mining sector growth. Silavwe reaffirmed CEC’s commitment to supporting this national agenda through strategic partnerships, innovation, and the mobilisation of private capital to deliver sustainable, long-term energy solutions.

ENDS

For More Information Contact:

Verona Mwila
Head Corporate Communications and Investor Relations
Email: [email protected]