Energy ministry says ‘relative network stability’ achieved, as electricity distribution issues in Namibia axis resolved

Zambia has been experiencing power transfer constraints in the Southern Circuit via Namibia, leading to reduced power imports of about 100 megawatts (MW) and increased hours of loadshedding in some areas, authorities have reported.

Ministry of Energy Permanent Secretary, Peter Mumba, announced that the converter fault on the Namibian power importation route was resolved on Thursday, August 29, 2024 and that the country can now expect relative network stability.

He made these remarks during the weekly energy update media briefing in Lusaka on Friday.

Mumba highlighted that the country’s current power generation stands at 1,019 MW against a demand of 2,400 MW, resulting in a deficit of 1,381 MW.

“As government, we continue to work around the clock to find solutions to improve power supply and keep the wheels of our economy running,” Mumba stated.

He noted that in addition to the 168 MW emergency power imports already secured from Eskom of South Africa, another 50 MW had now been secured from the Southern African Power Pool and began flowing as of August 24, 2024.

Furthermore, the first consignment of nine out of 23 diesel generators procured for emergency power had arrived in the country, with the remaining 14 expected in the coming weeks.

Read More:Govt pleads with citizens to ‘switch off and save,’ hints at reviewing 12-hour loadshedding schedule in October

“The nine diesel generators that have been received so far will be installed this week, beginning with two at Chilenje and Nyumba Yanga markets, and another two at Soweto market,” Mumba said.

He stated that the installation of all 23 diesel generators is expected to be completed by September 30, 2024.

Mumba also announced that the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) had set the net metering tariff at K1.59 per kilowatt, with the distribution use of system charge not exceeding 39 ngwee per kilowatt-hour.

“ERB has determined that these tariffs will apply until December 31, 2024, at which point they may be reviewed,” he said.

Despite the Southern African Regional Climate Outlook Forum’s prediction of normal rains in the coming season, Mumba reiterated government’s commitment to achieving a balanced energy mix for Zambia.

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