ZAMBIANS should brace themselves for a further reduced power supply as Zesco announced a potential load shedding following the commencement of phase two of Maamba Collieries’ annual plant maintenance.
Effective today, 150 megawatts of power will be removed from the national grid for the next two weeks.
The maintenance involves taking one of Maamba Collieries’ two power generation units offline.
This follows the recent successful restoration of the plant’s other unit, which had also undergone routine maintenance.
In a statement, Zesco stated that the reduced power supply is expected to prompt emergency power rationing across the country.
“This maintenance phase will result in 150MW being unavailable on the national grid for the next 15 days. During this period, emergency power rationing may occur due to the reduced supply.”
“We appreciate your understanding and patience,” read the statement.
This temporary reduction in power comes at a time when the country’s energy supply is already under pressure and any significant drop in output is likely to affect residential, commercial and industrial consumers across the country.
The power rationing, which may occur over the next two weeks, could adversely impact various sectors relying on steady electricity supply.
Maamba Collieries is a critical player in Zambia’s energy landscape which generates power from coal and contributes significantly to the country’s power grid.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, September 17, 2024
