www.opppi.gov.zm

In 1994 the Government of the Republic of Zambia promulgated the National Energy Policy (NEP). With regards to the electricity sub-sector, the main objective of the NEP was to increase access to electricity for the majority of Zambians, to increase the efficiency and performance of the electricity industry in Zambia and to attract private capital for the development of potential hydro electricity generation sites in Zambia. In 1998 a policy document titled Framework and Package of Incentives for Hydropower Generation and Transmission Development (FPI) was approved and adopted by Cabinet. This resulted in the formation of the Office for Promoting Private Power Investment (OPPPI) which started operating in October 1999.

Functions of the OPPPI 

The OPPPI was set up in October 1999 following Cabinet's approval of the policy document Framework and Package of Incentives for Private Sector Participation in Hydropower Generation and Transmission Development (FPI).

The purpose of the document is to provide a framework that spells out the likely concessions and incentives offered to attract private sector participation in the power industry. OPPPI was set up to be a 'One Window Operation' to reduce the complexity of procedures, rules and regulations and the red tape usually associated with obtaining the required approvals, permits and licences for investors in the electricity sector. Its mandate includes solicitation and evaluation of proposals, negotiation and award of contracts, as well as representing the interests of Government and acting as the focal point for co-ordinating with other agencies.