Zambia’s Energy Minister Addresses Ongoing Energy Crisis

The Minister of Energy, Hon. Makoze Chikote, MP, held the second energy weekly press update today to inform the nation on the ongoing energy situation and the government's efforts to mitigate its impact. In his address, Minister Chikoto emphasized the critical importance of safety, health, and the urgent need to address the power deficit affecting Zambia.

Minister Chikote outlined the current state of Zambia’s energy capacity: “As of 31st July 2024, Zambia’s installed national power generation capacity remains at 3,777 Megawatts. The national peak demand is 2,400 Megawatts, while the available power generation is only 1,040 Megawatts, resulting in a power deficit of 1,360 Megawatts.” He further explained that despite importing 410 Megawatts from the region, there is a net deficit of 950 Megawatts.

The Minister provided an update on measures taken to mitigate the electricity deficit:

  1. Procurement of More Electricity: ZESCO Limited has negotiated the procurement of 218 MW from Eskom, South Africa, and Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), expected to be added to the grid in August 2024.

  2. Deployment of Diesel Generators: ZESCO Limited is procuring generators to provide an additional 90 MW. The first 12 MW will be secured in August 2024.

  3. Accelerating Private Investment in New Generation Capacity:

    • The KFW-funded GET FiT 120 MW Solar PV Programme is one step closer to financial closure. This, along with the 300 MW Mamba project, will bring a total of 420 MW expected to break ground on 13th August 2024.

    • Tax-Free Imports on Solar Equipment: Effective1st August 2024 at midnight, the Cabinet has approved tax exemptions for solar implements and equipment to facilitate seamless importation.

  4. Net Metering and Solar Initiatives: The Net Metering guidelines were approved by the ERB Board and will be published today. ZESCO Limited will roll out Net Metering, allowing consumers to generate their own power from renewable sources and feed excess electricity back into the grid.

  5. Load Management Schedule: The 12-hour load management schedule continues and may increase due to the depletion of Kariba water allocation.

  6. Presidential Solar Initiative

    The progress on installing rooftop solar has reached an advanced stage. He stated that Government will be enacting and amending legislation necessary to ensure that Government efforts in improving the energy mix to at least 30% non-hydro renewable by 2030 are achieved without fail.

  7. Loadshedding Schedule

    The load management schedule is likely to be maintained through August 2024. With the continuous depletion of Kariba water allocation, an immediate increase in the power deficit is anticipated

He called upon citizens to partner with the government in efficient electricity use, suggesting measures such as using gas for cooking, adopting solar energy, and conserving electricity by switching off unused appliances.

“As we move forward, let us unite in our determination to power a brighter future for Zambia. Let us work together towards a sustainable tomorrow,” concluded Minister Chikote.

This article originally appeared on the Presidential Delivery Unit.

Open ZambiaComment