- Zambia is set to provide three hours of stable electricity supply for retail customers as the Maamba Energy Power Plant returns to entire operation and power imports normalise.
- Energy Minister Makozo Chikote announced efforts to encourage private investment in alternative energy sources to reduce reliance on hydropower amid ongoing energy shortages.
Zambia’s retail customers can expect three hours of stable electricity supply as the nation continues to confront a severe power crisis exacerbated by drought. Energy Minister Makozo Chikote announced this development during a press briefing on Wednesday, 2nd 2024, outlining the government’s efforts to stabilise the energy situation.
Chikote noted that with the Maamba Energy Power Plant returning to total operational capacity and the normalisation of power imports, the outlook for electricity supply is set to improve significantly. “Unlike last month, when consumers faced prolonged and unpredictable power cuts, we anticipate a more stable power supply going forward,” he stated. The Minister emphasised that the government has successfully resolved technical issues that disrupted electricity imports from Namibia.
Completing maintenance at the 300-megawatt Maamba power plant has further improved power production. This plant plays a crucial role in alleviating the energy shortfall, particularly as Zambia grapples with critical energy shortages due to reduced water levels in reservoirs that supply hydropower plants. Hydropower accounts for approximately 80 per cent of the country’s electricity generation, making the situation particularly precarious during drought.
Zesco Limited, the state-owned power utility, generates about 1,087 megawatts of electricity, a significant shortfall compared to the national demand of 2,400 megawatts. Managing Director Victor Mapani emphasised the urgent need for more robust energy solutions to meet the growing demand.
In light of the ongoing crisis, Chikote highlighted the government’s commitment to encouraging private investment in alternative energy sources, including solar and wind power. By diversifying the energy portfolio, the government aims to reduce the nation’s dependence on hydropower, which is vulnerable to climatic fluctuations.
The ongoing efforts to stabilise Zambia’s power supply are critical as the country seeks to ensure reliable electricity access for residential and commercial consumers. With the government’s proactive measures, including the revitalisation of the Maamba Energy Power Plant and the resolution of import issues, there is cautious optimism for an improved energy landscape shortly. As the nation moves forward, the emphasis on alternative energy sources will be vital in building a more resilient energy infrastructure and safeguarding against future crises.