ZESCO implements new load shedding schedule

ZESCO Limited is today expected to implement a new load-shedding schedule for residential areas in Lusaka communities see the eight-hourlong divided into two four- hour schedule in response to concerns from general public over the staggered long 8-hour daily load-shedding program.

Matongo Maumbi, the Zesco company spokesperson said in a statement yesterday that the load-shedding programme, implemented in March was a necessary measure to address the national power deficit caused by low generation capacity.

Mr Maumbi said that the staggering of residential outages was meant to minimise disruptions while ensuring grid stability.

He said that each area will experience two power outages of four hours each, which would be spread throughout the day.

“In response to stakeholder concerns, Zesco Limited will on 1st April 2024 implement a staggered eight-hour daily load shedding programme for residential areas in Lusaka. This means each area will experience two power outages of four hours each, spread throughout the day with an aim to minimize disruption,” Mr Maumbi said.

He however said for the industrial and farming, Zesco had acknowledged the unique needs of industrial and farming operations and that the sectors would continue to experience a single, uninterrupted eight-hour block of load shedding, with 16 hours of full power supply.

“This schedule allows for better production planning. Background: The ongoing load shedding programme, implemented on March 11, 2024, is a necessary measure to address the national power deficit caused by low generation capacity. Staggering residential outages aims to minimize disruptions while ensuring grid stability,” he said.

He said Zesco was encouraging customers and the public to practice energy efficiency during load shedding periods.