Stakeholders call for Zesco tariff review
By Ludia Ngwadzai and George Zulu
STAKEHOLDERS have expressed concern over the fast depletion of prepaid electricity units supplied by the state-owned power utility Zesco Limited.
Speaking in an interview with The Mast Monday, National Congress Party (NCP) vice president Daniel Nyati urged the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) to review Zesco’s electricity tariff structure to make electricity more affordable for households.
Nyati said the high tariffs were unsustainable, particularly given the high cost of living in Zambia.
He said many households were struggling to afford basic needs, including electricity, which was depleting quickly on prepaid units.
“The ERB should take action to correct any errors in the pricing mechanism and provide relief to consumers. This is disappointing, too,” Nyati said.
He said Zambians were expecting improved living standards through the provision of affordable electricity tariffs.
“The issue of electricity affordability is a pressing concern for many Zambians, and the New Congress Party’s call for a price review is likely to resonate with households struggling to make ends meet, let ERB intervene in this matter,” Nyati said.
Golden Party of Zambia (GPZ) president Jackson Silavwe said the new electricity billing system was harsh on citizens.
Silavwe urged Zesco and ERB to revert to the old billing system of for residential and domestic consumers.
The billing system implemented by Zesco and ERB in November last year has put tremendous financial stress on households triggering an outcry.
Households that used to purchase electricity units worth 500 per month are now spending double the amount and beyond.
“Surely this is adding more financial stress to households already battling poverty, high cost of living and doing business in the country,” Silavwe said.
Zesco attributed the rapid depletion of prepaid electricity units to the new ERB tariff model, which took effect on November 1, 2025.
Board chairperson Vickson N’cube, also said the increased availability of power had contributed to higher electricity usage and faster depletion of prepaid units.
“More households and businesses are now able to access and utilise electricity consistently. Under the new ERB model, customers are expected to receive about 35 units for every K100, depending on their consumption category,” he said.
