(LUSAKATIMES) Chinese power company show interest in Kafue power project

Chinese power company show interest in Kafue power project
Monday, June 22, 2009, 13:37

The China National Electric Equipment Corporation (CNEEC) has shown interest in developing the Kafue Lower Gorge Hydro Power Station at a cost of $1.5 billion.

Corporation President, Zhao Ruolin, says the Chinese power company will source for the money if the Zambian government agrees to contribute fifteen per cent of the total cost.

Znbc’s Luckson Nthani reports that Mr. Zhao made the pledge in Beijing on Monday.

This was when a delegation of Zambian parliamentarians and government officials visited the Headquarters of CNEEC which is solely-owned by the Chinese government.

He also said CNEEC is willing to help Zambia to develop alternative sources of energy from bio-mass, thermal, solar and wind.

At the same meeting, Chief parliamentary Whip, Vernon Mwaanga thanked the government of China for supporting Zambia’s efforts to meet its energy needs.
At the same meeting, Chief parliamentary Whip, Vernon Mwaanga thanked the government of China for supporting Zambia’s efforts to meet its energy needs.

And Commerce Minister Felix Mutati has invited the President of CNEEC, Mr. Zhao to Zambia in July to attend a SADC pledging conference for the Kafue Lower Gorge Power Station Project.

Mr. Mutati said Zambia’s power deficit needs urgent attention.

CNEEC has already signed a Memorandum of Understanding with private investors in Zambia who are planning to develop a hydro-power station on the Kalungwishi River in the Luapula Province.

The Kalungwishi River Power Station is expected to cost $600 million.

[ZNBC]