.Kambwili

By JAMES KUNDA –

CABINET has authorised Zesco to import 100 Megawatts of electricity as a short-term measure to alleviate the current power deficit being experienced in the county.
Zesco has also been directed to ensure that power generation projects under construction and scheduled for completion this year, are commissioned as planned to boost electricity supply.
Chief Government spokesperson Chishimba Kambwili said the power utility would spend US$60 million on power imports to cover for the electricity deficit between now and December.
Mr Kambwili said this at a media briefing at State House in Lusaka yesterday shortly after the 13th Cabinet meeting.
“Cabinet has deliberated on the electricity situation in the country and has taken short and long-term measures to alleviate the current power shortage. Cabinet has authorised the importation of 100 MW of power,” he said.
Mr Kambwili said Zesco must ensure that the 120 MW Itezhi-tezhi hydro power station under construction is commissioned in August this year as planned.
He said the power utility should see to it that Maamba Collieries commissioned its coal fired power station in November this year, as scheduled.
Cabinet also explored the option of power-renting from ships docked at sea.
“The on-going load shedding continues in order to protect the power generation equipment from possible damage due to reduced water levels.
“Zesco should actively promote the use of renewable energy technologies,” he said.
Among the long-term measures to address the situation, Cabinet directed Zesco to quickly implement the Lusiwashi hydropower project in Serenje and engage the promoters of the 150 megawatts Kalungwishi hydropower station to expedite its implementation.
Mr Kambwili said the Ndola Heavy Fuel Oil plant should be expanded from the current 50 megawatts to 100 megawatts.
Cabinet also approved the construction of the 340 megawatts EMCO thermal powered plant in Sinazongwe.
“Zesco has revised the load-shedding programme from two to four hours a day and this programme will be implemented in an equitable manner to ensure that the burden is spread across all areas apart from essential services and operations,” he said.
Zesco has lost $97 million due to reduced sales to customers and a US$70 million owing to reduced sales to distribution customers.
The power utility has lost overall funding gap of $166 million due to reduced generation resulting from low water levels at Kariba North Bank, Kafue Gorge and Victoria Falls power stations.