Solarcentury Africa is pleased to announce that phase 2 of its Mailo solar PV plant in Zambia (“Mailo 2”) has started full commercial operation, marking another important milestone in the phased development of the eventual 118 MWp Mailo solar PV plant.
This achievement follows the successful completion of construction activities and full grid compliance testing. With full commercial operations now underway, Mailo 2 adds 34.5 MWp of solar generation capacity to the Mailo solar PV plant, bringing the site's total operational capacity to 59.5 MWp.
Mailo 2 was supported by an equity investment from Solarcentury Africa’s parent company BB Energy and debt funding provided by Standard Bank South Africa. Alensy Energy Solutions was the appointed EPC contractor and construction of the plant was completed successfully in under 12 months.
This second phase builds on the success of the first phase of the Mailo solar PV plant, which has been operating since July 2025 on a fully merchant basis selling power through the Southern African Power Pool, further demonstrating the commercial viability of merchant solar generation in Zambia.
Mailo 2 will contribute additional renewable energy generation capacity to Zambia's power sector, supporting energy security and economic growth while advancing the country's energy transition objectives. The Mailo project forms part of a wider portfolio of 350 MW of solar projects that Solarcentury Africa has under operation, construction and development in Zambia.
Jason de Carteret, Chief Executive Officer of Solarcentury Africa, said:
"The start of full commercial operations of Mailo 2 is a significant milestone for the Mailo project and a testament to the hard work and collaboration of everyone involved. We are proud to have delivered the second phase of the Mailo development and to continue supporting Zambia's growing demand for reliable and sustainable electricity."
