Ignite Energy Access plans to deploy 30 additional mini-grids in Zambia
By Global Infrastructure Sherpa · Jan 14, 2026
Increase Access to Electricity and Renewable Energy Production (IAEREP) Project
Project
Ignite Energy Access plans to deploy 30 additional minigrids in Zambia by early 2026, in collaboration with national and international partners supporting the country’s energy transition.
Deal Analysis
Ignite Energy Access's plan to deploy 30 additional solar mini-grids in Zambia by early 2026 represents a significant step towards expanding energy access in the region. The project, supported by the European Union and the National Authorising Office of the European Development Fund, aims to contribute to Zambia's energy transition. While the financial value of the project remains undisclosed, the involvement of international financiers suggests a substantial investment in renewable energy infrastructure. The project aligns with broader efforts to electrify rural communities and promote sustainable development in Zambia.
The deployment of these mini-grids is notable due to the collaboration between a private developer (Ignite Energy Access) and international funding organizations. This partnership model is increasingly common in emerging markets, leveraging private sector expertise with public sector financing to address critical infrastructure gaps. The focus on solar technology further highlights the growing importance of renewable energy solutions in meeting Africa's energy needs. The success of this project could serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives in other countries facing energy access challenges.
- Deployment of 30 solar mini-grids in Zambia by early 2026.
- Collaboration between Ignite Energy Access, the European Union, and the National Authorising Office of the European Development Fund.
- Focus on solar technology to contribute to Zambia's energy transition.
- Illustrates a public-private partnership model for infrastructure development in emerging markets.
Market Context: Zambia, like many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, faces significant challenges in providing reliable and affordable electricity to its population, particularly in rural areas. Mini-grids, especially those powered by renewable sources like solar, are increasingly seen as a viable solution to address these challenges and promote economic development.
Source Intelligence
KEY DETAILS
Ignite Energy Access plans to deploy 30 additional minigrids in Zambia by early 2026, in collaboration with national and international partners supporting the country’s energy transition. Quote: Building on this momentum, the company plans to deploy 30 additional minigrids in Zambia by early 2026, in collaboration with national and international partners supporting the country’s energy transition.
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Capacity
the 100kWp Kumadzi Solar Minigrid site in Chadiza District
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Location
across Zambia’s Eastern Province
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Announcement
January 14, 2026
PARTIES MENTIONED IN SOURCE
I
Ignite Energy Access
developer
"Ignite Energy Access Lights Up Rural Zambia with another 15 Mini-Grid"
E
European Union
investor
"co-financed by the European Union (EU) through the National Authorising Office of the European Development Fund (NAO)"
S
Sagemcom Zambia
EPC Partner
"and our EPC Partner Sagemcom Zambia represented by the Country Manager Mr. Bruno Marty."
R
Rural Electrification Authority (REA)
"Acting Director Technical Services, representing the CEO of Rural Electrification Authority (REA)"
medium quality
Enriched Feb 19, 2026
Market Context
This deal is part of the Solar sector in Zambia.
1 of 452 Solar deals tracked this month · Updated daily