ERB URGED TO ENHANCE SENSITISATION
GOVERNMENThas challenged the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) to sensitise the public about the projects being undertaken in the energy sector.
Copperbelt Permanent Secretary, Bright Nundwe, said ERB should upscale the sensitisation programmes so that the public was fully aware of the upcoming projects and critical issues in the energy sector .
He also advised the firm to continue educating energy consumers on the use of energy and alternative energy sources such as solar home systems and gas for domestic cooking.
Mr Nundwe was speaking in Kitwe when he officially opened the ERB organised meeting with officials from selected local authorities and other key stakeholders to discuss issues related to the location of energy infrastructure.
"I have observed muteness in you. Most people complain about load-shedding of power and it is your duty to inform the public regarding the various developmental projects taking place in the energy sector aimed at ending the problem," he said.
Mr Nundwe further noted that the increase in demand for infrastructure had in certain circumstances leading to allocation of land in unsuitable areas for the construction of energy facilities such as fuel stations and fuel storage depots.
He said the allocation of land without planning for service lines had led to the delay in the connection of power to residents as the country's power utility was required to negotiate with different owners of the land where to erect poles and pass power lines.
The Permanent Secretary observed that the demand for land had led to encroachment on way leaves for ZESCO and Copperbelt Energy Cooperation as well as reserved land for roads and railways.
Mr Nundwe further directed that the allocation of land without due demand for long term planning should come to an end.
Meanwhile, ERB Copperbelt region Senior Manager Nasima Shaikh said the firm would continue involving key stakeholders because proper planning could not be achieved in isolation.
Ms Shaikh said given an important role in the country's economy, the proper planning of infrastructure around the resource was critical.