Safetricity

Zambia’s Energy Outlook Beyond August

There is a lot of talk going around that after August Zambia will go back into serious loadshedding, mostly tied to Kariba and “low water levels” and therefore people should start buying 'solar'.

That narrative is not fully aligned with what the hydrology is actually showing.

This year, rainfall across key catchments feeding our major river systems has been generally better than the previous drought stressed cycle. In simple terms, the inflows into the system are healthier than what people are basing their predictions on. It doesn’t mean everything is perfect, but it also doesn’t support the extreme “we are going dark after August” conclusion.

We also need to be careful with how we interpret the power system. Zambia’s generation is not a single switch at Kariba. It is a combination of water storage levels at key dams, inflows, regional imports, demand growth and other generation sources coming into the mix.

Yes, hydropower is sensitive. Yes, climate variability is real. But the current conditions are not pointing to an automatic deterioration after we cross August.

At the same time, solar should not be framed as a fear-based purchase. It is not just “buy because power will go”. Solar is already a viable energy option on its own. Even in relatively stable periods, it still makes technical and economic sense.

Zambia’s energy outlook beyond August is more stable than the current alarm suggests and solar remains relevant not because of fear, but because the energy system is evolving toward distributed, hybrid solutions.

For customers who already have shackle insulators installed on the roof, you are advised to contact your utility company through customer services to request isolation and guidance for corrective relocation.

This process should also be followed by those making renovations or any modifications to their premises, including changes that affect the connection point.

This requirement is important because shackle insulators placed on metallic roofs can energise accessible metal surfaces in the event of insulation failure, creating a direct shock risk.

Guidance on Safe Shackle Installation

Guidance is hereby given by ZESCO Limited regarding the correct placement of roof shackles.

Electricians & homeowners should not allow a shackle insulator to be installed directly on a roof, especially a metallic roof, as this can create a potential electrical hazard. Instead, the shackle insulator should be mounted on the wall, with an offset bracket as shown in the image to improve service cable clearance.

Proper installation is important for both safety and reliability. Incorrect placement can expose occupants to serious electrical risks, especially in the event of insulation failure or damaged service cables.

Note that premises not complying with this requirement will not be connected.

The Zambian energy landscape keeps getting better.

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For the commissioning of our 136 MW Itimpi II Power Plant, a milestone demonstrating our commitment to sustainable development and reliable power for Zambia.

Date: 30th April, 2026
Time: 10:00hrs

9 Days To Go! ⏳
The stage is set to celebrate those leading the way in Safety, Health & Excellence.
ZASAA 2026 is where impact meets recognition.

📅 28th April 2026
📍 Mulungushi International Conference Centre
🎟️ Don’t miss it.
🌐 www.zasaa.org
📞 +260 961 154 045

An employee can be imprisoned where there is clear negligence or willful disregard for safety, especially when operating unsafe equipment or failing to follow safety procedures in a workplace, leading to risk of harm to themselves or others.

DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this page is for guidance purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, Safetricity cannot be held responsible for any errors, omissions, or misuse of this information.

Always refer to the latest editions of applicable standards and regulations, as well as OEM guidelines, industry best practices, local utility requirements, or consult a licensed electrician to ensure compliance with current codes and practices.

Power supply has improved and we are seeing fewer queues at gas refilling kiosks. But let us not allow safety standards to drop along with demand.

If you have reduced or stopped using gas for cooking:

1. Ensure your cylinder valve is tightly closed even if you believe it is empty.
2. Store cylinders in a well ventilated area and keep them upright at all times.
3. Avoid storing cylinders near heat sources.
4. Never assume an empty cylinder is safe residual gas can still pose a risk.

You complain that electricity services are slow.
Then you pay a bribe to “speed things up.”
Congratulations! You just funded the delay for the next customer.

If you accidentally buy K10,000 electricity units instead of K100, DO NOT enter the token into your meter.

Once a token is entered, it becomes used and it cannot be reversed or transferred to another meter.

Leave the token unused and contact the utility immediately to check for any available remedial options.

Always double-check the meter number and purchase amount before buying electricity units.