NWEC, a licensed Zambian electricity distributor serving the fast-growing North-Western mining region, is seeking a strategic partner through a 75% equity sale valued at US$32.1 million, as part of a US$105 million funding package that includes refinancing and network expansion. The build-own-operate utility supplies residential townships around major mines, including Barrick Lumwana, FQM Kalumbila and Kabitaka and holds a 15-year licence to distribute up to 20 MW. With strong demand growth, gross margins of 39% and EBITDA projected to increase from 13% in 2022 to 19% in 2026, NWEC offers a scalable platform requiring both capital and technical expertise.
Project overview
Investment opportunity
Northwestern Energy Corporation Limited (NWEC) is seeking a strategic investor to acquire a 75% equity stake valued at US$32.1 million as part of a broader US$105 million funding package to support refinancing and network expansion. As a licensed electricity distributor serving Zambia's rapidly growing North-Western mining corridor, NWEC supplies residential townships associated with major mining operations and holds a 15-year licence to distribute up to 20 MW of electricity. With strong demand growth, attractive gross margins and improving EBITDA performance, the company offers investors a scalable energy distribution platform with significant expansion potential. Beyond capital, NWEC seeks technical expertise to enhance operational efficiency and support long-term growth in a high-demand market.
Investment types sought
Project status
Development stage
Feasibility & due diligence
Current status / progress to date
Feasibility study, environmental impact assessment (EIA) and grid impact study (GIS) completed. Project development is advanced and positioned for investor participation, financing and network expansion.
Additional project information
- Lead agency
- Northwestern Energy Corporation Limited
Expected impact
500
Jobs created / supported
Economic & development benefits
- Expands reliable electricity access for residential townships and growing communities in the North-Western region
- Supports mining productivity and economic growth by increasing the capacity and reliability of electricity supply
Climate & resilience benefits
- Improves energy efficiency and reduces losses through investment in modern power distribution infrastructure
- Enhances electricity supply resilience for mining operations and surrounding communities through network expansion and reliability upgrades
Contact
Contact team
For more information about this project, please contact the Commonwealth Investment Platform team.