In a recent press briefing in Mumbwa, Energy Permanent Secretary Mr. Peter Mumba announced the commissioning of a 111-kilowatt solar panel. He provided updates on the diesel generator deployment and the country’s energy situation.
Seventeen of the 23 diesel generators have been distributed across the country. ZESCO has completed the installation of four generators at Chilenje, Yumba-Yanga, Munyaule, and Chelston markets, and two at Soweto market. The government is committed to the timely installation of the remaining units and is taking measures to support small and medium businesses during the ongoing energy crisis.
The country is facing a significant power shortfall, which has impacted ZESCO’s ability to implement the planned 17-hour power rationing schedule that was to begin on September 1, 2024. This shortfall is due to biannual maintenance at Mamba Energy Limited and reduced power imports from Namibia, leaving ZESCO with only 33 megawatts of the scheduled 160 megawatts. The current power generation stands at 1,019 megawatts against a demand of 2,400 megawatts, resulting in a deficit of 1,381 megawatts.
In response, the government is addressing affordability challenges in renewable energy by partnering with financial institutions to offer flexible financing options. The Public Service Micro-financing Company has introduced a facility to help civil servants access solar and other renewable products affordably. Other employers are encouraged to create similar initiatives for their employees, and commercial banks are showing increasing interest in supporting these financing efforts. Local microfinance institutions and partners are also being urged to expand solar financing services.
The government remains dedicated to rural electrification as part of its 2030 vision, aiming to achieve universal access to electricity. Statistics show that rural electricity access has risen from 8% to around 90%. The recently commissioned 111-kilowatt project is part of this strategy and will provide reliable power to Chunga and surrounding areas, including the National Park, African Parks offices, Chunga primary and secondary schools, Chunga Rural Health Centre, and staff houses. For the first time, 90 households in Kafue National Park will now have access to electricity.
