ZESCO Assures Minimum 3-Hour Power Supply Amidst Low Generation Capacity

ZESCO Managing Director, Engineer Justine Loongo, has reassured the nation that despite the ongoing electricity challenges caused by significantly low power generation, the power utility will continue to provide a minimum of three hours of electricity supply per day to consumers across the country. His assurance comes at a time when Zambia is grappling with reduced water levels in major reservoirs, a situation that has negatively affected the country’s ability to generate adequate hydroelectric power.

Speaking in an interview with the media, Engineer Loongo explained that the persistent low water levels in key reservoirs have placed the national electricity system under pressure, forcing ZESCO to maintain restricted supply schedules. He stated that although the available power generation capacity has declined, the company has put measures in place to ensure that households, particularly those in low-density areas, still receive the minimum three hours of electricity supply daily.

Engineer Loongo emphasized that the three-hour minimum supply threshold will remain in effect until there is a noticeable improvement in reservoir levels. He further noted that any incremental increase in power availability will depend on improved water inflows, which are directly linked to upcoming rainfall patterns. According to him, ZESCO is closely monitoring hydrological indicators to determine how much power can be reliably generated and distributed at any given time.

He added that the utility company is committed to maintaining stability in its load-management schedule to prevent unexpected disruptions. Engineer Loongo revealed that high-density residential areas will continue to receive extended supply windows, with at least ten hours of electricity per day. This, he said, is meant to cushion the impact of reduced power generation on communities that rely heavily on electricity for daily activities.

The ZESCO Managing Director also highlighted that the power utility is constantly reviewing generation trends, rainfall forecasts, and inflow projections to ensure that supply adjustments are made transparently and in the best interest of consumers. He reiterated that the company’s ability to increase electricity availability will depend entirely on improvements in reservoir levels and the stability of the water sources that power the nation’s hydroelectric plants.

Engineer Loongo said ZESCO will continue to update the public on any changes to supply schedules as the