Zambia is set to receive electricity from South Africa and Zimbabwe to mitigate the ongoing power cuts that have been plaguing the country since October, the government announced on Thursday.
Government’s Efforts to Secure Electricity Supply
Energy Minister Makozo Chikote revealed that Zambia plans to import over 200 megawatts of electricity from Eskom, the South African state-owned power utility, and the Zimbabwe Power Company.
Electricity has become scarce in this southern African nation due to a severe drought affecting dam levels, where 80% of the country’s electricity is generated.
Extent of Power Outages
In recent months, Zambians have endured up to sixteen hours of power cuts per day.
By the end of July, Zambia’s national electricity company (ZESCO) was producing less than half of the country’s demand, the minister stated.
Integration of Imported Electricity into the Grid
“The electricity provided by these two companies should be integrated into the grid during August,” Makozo Chikote specified during a press conference.
In February, the government declared the drought a national disaster, with crops significantly compromised. This drought is exacerbated by climate change and the El Niño weather phenomenon.
Government’s Mitigation Measures
The government is relying on several measures to alleviate these power cuts, such as installing diesel generators in hospitals and schools. It has also called for accelerated private investment in the electricity sector.
Additionally, the tax on solar panels has been eliminated.
Economic Impact of Power Cuts
These power cuts, which have intensified since October, are slowing down economic activity and primarily affecting small businesses, the minister emphasized.