ZESCO warns against charging inverters from its power sources

ZESCO Limited has advised against using its electricity supply to charge inverters and house-powering batteries without an alternative power source.

Otis Matongo, ZESCO’s Manager in Charge of Marketing, explained that installing these power storage systems doubles electricity consumption when power was restored, causing issues for the utility company.

Matongo emphasized this point in an interview with Zambia Monitor on Friday at the 96th Agricultural and Commercial Show, held under the theme “Creating a Competitive Future.”

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He noted that both homes and businesses are increasingly installing batteries and inverters.

“This is what is causing ZESCO to fail to adhere to these schedules,” he pointed out. Matongo highlighted that the additional batteries in houses overload the electricity lines, exacerbating the problem.

To mitigate this issue, Matongo encouraged clients who wish to have power storage systems to also invest in external alternative power sources.

“If you are going to install these systems, get a sustainable source of power such as rooftop solar panels or wind energy if you can afford it,” he advised.

He stated that adopting such sustainable sources would help ZESCO manage the load better and adhere to its power schedules.

“If we go that route, then the load would be stable and ZESCO will be able to follow its schedule,” he assured.

Matongo’s advice comes as Zambia continued to face challenges with electricity supply, making the efficient and sustainable use of power more critical than ever.

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