REA Gets Kudos for Solar Energy Project
By Linda Mupemo
Inverters at Mpanta solar power plant |
Luapula Chamber of Commerce and Industry
President Emmanuel Munsanje has commended the Rural Electrification Authority
(REA) for incorporating renewable energy sources into its electrification
projects.
Mr. Munsanje cited the 60 Kilowatt Mpanta Solar
Mini Grid project in Samfya District which is providing electricity to the
community as a game changer in the energy sector.
ZANIS reports that Mr. Munsanje said green and
clean energy projects are welcome especially as the world strives to reduce
carbon emissions.
Mr. Munsanje has since called on government to
allocate more funds to renewable energy projects in a bid to increase access to
electricity in an environmentally friendly manner.
"The Mpanta solar plant is a progressive
project. We need more of such sustainable developmental projects, projects
which neither harm the environment nor contribute to global warming," he
said.
Speaking in a separate interview, REA Corporate
Affairs Manager Justin Mukosa disclosed that REA is in the process of scaling
up renewable energy plants in the country.
Mr. Mukosa said the organisation is working with
the Zambia Cooperative Federation (ZCF) to tap into the excess power generated
by solar milling plants dotted across the country.
He said REA and ZCF signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU), adding that they are currently doing a pilot project in
Chongwe District where electricity is being generated from solar energy.
"Only half of the 15 kilowatts generated by
solar milling plants is utilised for milling purposes. We want to tap into this
excess power. When resources are available, we will expand the initiative to
other parts of the country," he said.
Mr. Mukosa noted that solar energy is a reliable alternative source of energy which is in line with Sustainable Development Goal number Seven whose focus is universal provision of clean affordable, reliable and modern energy services .
Meanwhile, Samfya District Education Board
Secretary (DEBS) Denis Mukunta said the quality of education offered at Mpanta
Primary School has improved since the learning institution was connected to
electricity.
Mr. Mukunta noted that teachers can now deliver
practical lessons in subjects such as Computer Studies with ease.
He added that the performance of learners at the
school has improved as they have extended hours of studying after class
hours.
And Acting Samfya District Health Director Zaccheus
Lungu said electricity has enhanced the delivery of health care services at
Mpanta Rural Health Center which has a catchment population of over
5,000.
"We are now able to store medical commodities
such as vaccines in the fridge. Additionally, the coming of power has reduced
home deliveries as expectant mothers are motivated to deliver from the health
facility," Mr. Lungu said.
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