Zambia: Pathways to energy transition

Zambia intends to conditionally reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 47% by 2030. At the same time, improving energy access remains a priority, as only 43% of the population has access to electricity.2 To meet growing energy demand, the government has identified energy efficiency as a priority in the country’s nationally determined contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. Zambia’s National Development Plan includes plans to increase geothermal, wind and solar electricity generation by 2030.3

Beyond its domestic energy transition efforts, Zambia plays an important role in the global energy transition as a major exporter of copper, a mineral used for low-carbon technologies and electricity networks. As copper production increases, the country also faces increasing demand for energy needed to sustain copper mining activities.4 In this context, EITI reporting and multi-stakeholder dialogue can spur debate on energy access, use and efficiency, inform sustainable transition pathways and help monitor climate commitments.

Data reported through the EITI can serve as an entry point to inform debate and policymaking related to the energy transition and its impact in Zambia. EITI data-driven forecasting can help to understand potential benefits, address economic implications of the energy transition and provide evidence for policymakers to manage risks and leverage opportunities.