Zambia saw the start of power generation at its 120-MW Itezhi Tezhi hydropower project on the Kafue River. The project consists of two 60-MW Kaplan turbines and will provide renewable energy for use domestically with some left over for export.
The European Union Africa Infrastructure Trust Fund said that the Itezhi Tezhi will help reduce the amount of fossil fuels used in Zambia for power as well as in the Southern African Power Pool.
Unit one at the hydropower project is currently generating 30 MW and is being transmitted about 280 km from Itezhi-Tezhi to Lusaka via the newly-constructed 220 KV/330 KV transmission line. The plant is only using one unit due to low water levels but when the water levels return to normal the plant will begin to operate at full capacity of 120 MW.