Zesco proposes increased use of alternative energy sources

Zesco proposes increased use of alternative energy sources
Written by Mwila Chansa in Kitwe
Sunday, June 28, 2009 4:35:00 PM

ZESCO has proposed increased use of alternative energy sources to promote competitiveness so as to realise the diversification drive in the economy.
And Energy Regulation Board (ERB) Northern region manager Yohanne Mukabe urged energy consumers not to view messages of reducing consumption as an inconvenience.

Meanwhile, energy deputy minister Allan Mbewe noted that the whole world was now moving towards energy efficient technology to mitigate climate change.

During the official launch of the Energy Conservation Commemoration week at City Square in Kitwe on Friday, Zesco customer services director Teddie Mwale said the power utility recognised the need for other energy sector institutions to play their role.

"Therefore, Zesco encourages the use of alternative sources of energy like renewable energy such as solar, wind and biomass wherever possible. You will agree with me that this spirit of competitiveness will effectively promote the diversification drive in the economy," said Mwale.

He further said concerted efforts were required by all stakeholders to use electricity prudently in order to minimise the undesirable effects of load shedding.

And Mukabe said reducing energy consumption should not be seen as an inconvenience but as one way of reducing bills for customers.

He said the current challenges being faced in the energy sector such as increased demand against low generation capacity of electricity called for behavioural change in energy consumption.

He noted that people in Zambian consumed more electricity than they should.

Meanwhile, Mbewe said those that followed world politics were aware that energy efficiency was one of US President Barack Obama's priorities and that if the US could choose to be prudent in using energy, Zambia had no choice but to follow suit.

And Copperbelt University (CBU) public relations officer Grace Mikunga said the institution was determined to play its role in contributing to energy awareness to industry and commercial enterprises.

Mikunga noted that energy constituted a major component of factors that increased the cost of production whilst reducing profitability.