The EELA programme, funded by the Government of Sweden through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), is expanding its efforts to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Africa through integrated energy efficiency interventions.
As part of this broader programmatic approach, the regional intervention is being complemented by the launch of several country-specific initiatives. The launching of EELA Zambia on 3 September 2025 represents a significant step towards fostering energy efficiency, low-carbon development and long-term sustainable development in industry.
Under the four-year cooperation agreement running until 2029, Sida is set to provide 60.3 million SEK million to support Zambia’s transition to a low-carbon economy. As Zambia pursues universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services by 2030, accelerating the adoption of energy efficient appliances is critical to achieving this goal.
By bringing together government institutions and private actors, the EELA Zambia Country Project aims to accelerate the uptake of energy efficient lighting and appliances while also mobilizing investments in the low-carbon transformation of the industrial sector and in local value chains. In addition, the project focuses on strengthening e-waste management, building institutional and technical capacity as well as raising awareness around sustainable energy practices. Energy efficiency offers a cost-effective solution to improve electricity access and affordability, particularly in the industrial sector, which account for most of Zambia’s energy consumption.
The Ambassador of Sweden to Zambia, H.E. Mr. Johan Hallenborg, noted in his speech at the launch of the EELA Zambia Country Project: “Through continued collaboration, mutual learning, and shared commitments, Zambia and Sweden are showing that a sustainable energy future is not only possible - it is already taking place.”
