Government through the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) is today holding a second public hearing on the application by ZESCO Limited to consider adjusting electricity tariffs for residential, commercial and maximum demand customers during the emergency period.
Speaking during the public hearing, ERB Board Chairperson James Banda revealed that the Authority held the its first hearing on ZESCO’s application on the Copperbelt in Kitwe last Saturday, 5th October 2024.
He said the hearings are in response to ZESCO Limited’s second emergency tariff application that was submitted to ERB at the end of September.
Mr. Banda noted that ERB is considering the application as it falls within the provisions of the Electricity Act in handling emergencies.
He said the purpose of holding public hearings is to promote transparency and stakeholder engagement in decision- making process.
Mr. Banda stated that the input from the public is meant to form part of the decision-making process as the board of directors considers the application.
He said Zambia is currently experiencing a deficit of about 1,300 MW of electricity induced by the low levels of hydro-electricity power generation on account of the drought suffered during the last rain season.
Meanwhile, Mr. Banda has requested ZESCO to provide informative responses and clarifications to the submissions from the stakeholders.
“According to ZESCO’s application, the power utility company would like to raise funds for electricity imports which will reduce the stated deficit.” Mr. Banda said
