Net Metering Program Offers Hope for Zambia’s Energy Future
The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) is actively promoting the net metering program, which enables consumers to generate their own electricity and supply any surplus to the national grid. This initiative has been met with enthusiasm as a practical step toward a sustainable and inclusive energy future for Zambia.
Announcing the program’s progress, ERB Director General Elijah Sichone explained that participants could not only reduce their electricity bills but also contribute to strengthening the country’s energy system. “The program empowers consumers to generate their own power and share the excess with the national grid, easing pressure on the system while supporting energy security,” Sichone said.
Currently, the approved tariff for energy supplied to the grid is set at 6 cents per kilowatt-hour. While still in its early stages, the program has already begun to gain traction, with Sichone expressing optimism about its potential. “As power supply becomes more consistent and awareness grows, we anticipate more Zambians will take advantage of this opportunity,” he noted.
Although the program has been well-received, some participants and experts have pointed out areas that could be refined to maximize its impact. The initial cost of renewable energy systems, including solar panels and inverters, remains a barrier for some households and businesses. Calls for affordable financing solutions and tax incentives have grown louder, with stakeholders suggesting these measures would accelerate adoption and of course with proper guidance.
However, rather than dampening enthusiasm, these challenges have sparked constructive dialogue among key players. “We are seeing robust engagement from various stakeholders, which is encouraging. This kind of collaboration will only strengthen the program’s effectiveness,” Sichone stated.
There is also room for improvement in raising public awareness. While many are aware of renewable energy’s benefits, the specifics of the net metering program are not yet widely understood. The ERB is exploring innovative outreach strategies to ensure more Zambians can make informed decisions about participating.
Despite these challenges, the program’s potential has earned praise from energy experts, environmental advocates, and early participants. By diversifying Zambia’s energy mix and encouraging investment in renewables, net metering aligns with global sustainability goals while addressing local energy needs.
One participant described their experience with the program as transformative: “Installing solar panels has not only reduced our bills but also made us feel like we’re contributing to the nation’s energy security. It’s a step in the right direction.”
Engineer Sichone emphasized that the program’s success hinges on collaboration. “This initiative is about building partnerships between the government, private sector, and consumers. Together, we can ensure Zambia achieves energy sustainability.”
With the net metering program gaining momentum, there is optimism about its role in shaping Zambia’s energy landscape. The initiative is particularly timely as the country seeks to modernize its energy infrastructure and reduce its reliance on large-scale hydroelectric power, which is vulnerable to climate-related disruptions.
Mild concerns about tariff rates and system accessibility have been acknowledged, but the ERB remains committed to refining the program based on feedback. “This is an evolving process. We are open to adjustments that will make the program even more beneficial for participants and the nation as a whole,” Sichone affirmed.
Zambia’s embrace of net metering sends a strong signal about the country’s readiness to innovate and adapt to modern energy challenges. As more households and businesses come on board, the program is set to deliver tangible benefits, from lower energy costs to a more resilient national grid.
With the collective effort of all stakeholders, net metering could soon become a flagship program for Zambia, showcasing the nation’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.
Action always after the horse has bolted
LT why no mention of the National black out ?
News wires are reporting Zimbabwe had a problem ??
Too slow. Zesco must have led the charge by providing/installing all the needed hardware and deduct from the billing later. That ensures speedy coverage of all individuals and industries producing solar power from their installed solar panels while maintaining safe and consistent installation works. There’s a potential yield of circa 500 MW from this alone.
But you are paying back in units. If we have access to sell, we have enough for ourselves. We don’t want payment in units. We want moola. Pay us in moolas and watch the country turn into a regional power house.