### Upcoming Energy Summit in Zambia: A Key Player in the Region’s Energy Transition
The **C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia**, scheduled for **August 27-28, 2025**, at The Pamodzi Hotel in Lusaka, marks a significant moment for the Southern African Development Community (SADC). This summit aims to create a collaborative environment focused on addressing pressing energy challenges while propelling sustainable solutions specifically for Zambia’s commercial and industrial sectors.
### A Platform for Collaboration
As part of VUKA Group’s Power and Energy Portfolio, the summit serves as a dynamic venue for stakeholders to engage in discussions about Zambia’s energy future. Mr. Makozo Chikote, Zambia’s Minister of Energy, emphasizes the region’s capacity to meet the demand for sustainable energy. “It is undeniable that the SADC region possesses the potential, but what we lack is collaboration,” he remarks, highlighting the critical need for unity in tackling energy issues.
### Strong Industry Support
The summit enjoys endorsements from numerous industry associations, including the **Zambia Ministry of Energy**, **Zambia Development Agency (ZDA)**, **Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM)**, and the **Pan African Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI)**. This backing demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing the energy landscape in Zambia. ZESCO, the local utility company, is proudly hosting the summit alongside prominent sponsors such as **Enerj**, **Hexing**, **WEG**, and **Vertiv**.
### Influential Advisory Board
A carefully selected **Advisory Board** comprised of industry leaders helps shape the summit’s programming. Their insights ensure that the sessions address relevant and pressing challenges related to energy security for commercial and industrial entities. Key members of the board include:
– **Ian Griffiths**: Solar and Hydro Projects Developer
– **Johnstone Chikwanda**: Global Ambassador of Energy and Climate Change, Forum of African Traditional Authorities (FATA)
– **Mbiko Banda**: Electrical Engineer and Research Lead, Africa GreenCo
– **Rodgers K. Muyangwa**: Senior Manager of Research and Pricing, Economic Regulation, Energy Regulation Board
– **Rose Chikotola-Sichizya**: Co-ordinator, Proudly Zambian Campaign
– **Liana Braxton**: Managing Director, Sosimple Energy
– **Chimuka Nketani**: Director of Investment, Zambia Development Agency
– **Brian Tahinduka**: Energy Head, Africa Regions, Standard Bank
Their collective expertise ensures the summit addresses the needs and interests of industry stakeholders effectively.
### Speaker Highlights
The event boasts a lineup of speakers who bring extensive experience from various sectors within the energy value chain. Key speakers include:
– **Billy Onyango**: Renewable Energy Consultant, Kenya Power
– **Chabuka Kawesha**: Chairperson, Vice President (South Block), PACCI
– **Chikoma Kazunga**: Head of Business Development and New Ventures, Africa GreenCo
– **Helen Zulu**: Country Director, ENGIE Energy Access Zambia
These thought leaders will share invaluable insights on topics such as embedded generation, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and Zambia’s open-access framework.
### Tailored Programs for Industry Needs
The summit features a **Hosted Buyer Programme** aimed at businesses experiencing challenges with unreliable utility power, price volatility, and operational pressures. This program fosters direct connections between C&I project owners and solution providers active in Zambia:
**Who Should Participate?**
– Commercial and industrial enterprises
– Large-scale energy consumers
– Energy project owners and buyers
Interested parties can learn more about the Hosted Buyer Programme through the summit’s website.
### Importance of Participation
For businesses encountering inconsistent utility power and aspiring for energy independence, the summit is a crucial opportunity. Participants can engage in masterclasses and case studies, gaining insights into alternative energy technologies and storage solutions. Networking opportunities and discussions on regulatory frameworks will also equip them with the necessary tools to navigate financial and technical hurdles, ultimately fostering partnerships that expedite project development.
### Key Industries Impacted
The discussions and outcomes of the summit are vital for Zambia’s C&I sectors, with implications across various industries, including:
– **Retail**: Consistent power is essential for store operations and supply chains.
– **Manufacturing**: Stable energy is critical for uninterrupted production processes.
– **Agriculture and Agri-processing**: Reliable power supports irrigation and processing operations.
– **Property Development**: Sustainable buildings rely on effective energy solutions.
– **Mining and Energy-intensive Industries**: Reliable operations are paramount for mining activities.
### A Call to Action
The **C&I Energy + Storage Summit Zambia** presents an invaluable opportunity for all stakeholders involved. Whether as sponsors, delegates, hosted buyers, or investors, participants can significantly contribute to and benefit from this pivotal event.
For those eager to elevate their energy strategies and influence the future of energy in Zambia and the SADC region, registration details are readily available on the summit’s official website.
**For inquiries regarding sponsorships or the Hosted Buyer Programme, reach out to:**
Marcel du Toit at marcel.dutoit@wearevuka.com
### About VUKA Group
VUKA Group stands as a leading organizer of industry conferences and events in Africa, dedicated to fostering innovation and economic growth. By creating tailored platforms for networking and knowledge sharing, VUKA Group supports advancements in energy and related sectors.
