Zambia's Zesco Limited Takes Cautious Approach to Power Generation Despite Lake Kariba's Rising Water Levels

Lusaka, Jan 8 (NationPress) Zambia's state-owned power utility Zesco Limited announced it will not hastily boost electricity generation despite a stable rise in water levels at Lake Kariba.

While acknowledging a slight uptick in the water level at Lake Kariba, which feeds the Kariba North Bank Power Plant, Zesco Limited stated on Tuesday that it would maintain the current reduced generation rates to ensure long-term viability and avoid further depletion, according to reports from Xinhua.

Zesco spokesperson Matongo Maumbi warned that prematurely increasing power production could further deplete the reservoir, putting the country in a precarious situation if rainfall does not persist.

“Zesco understands the difficulties that power rationing has created for families, businesses, and the economy. Nevertheless, our foremost duty is to protect the long-term viability of Lake Kariba as a vital electricity resource,” he stated.

He noted that the water level at Lake Kariba has climbed to 475.87 meters from the minimal operational threshold of 475.50 meters, yet it remains lower than last year's figure of 477.28 meters. The reservoir's usable storage is critically low at 2.61 percent, compared to 12.32 percent at the same time last year.

The spokesperson further mentioned that the volume of water available for hydropower generation is inadequate for sustainable operations, especially due to the unpredictable regional rainfall patterns.

Additionally, the power utility is actively engaged in long-term strategies to diversify the electricity mix of the country, including substantial investments in solar power to lessen dependence on hydropower.

Zambia is currently facing a significant electricity shortfall following insufficient rainfall during the 2023/2024 season, as the nation relies heavily on hydroelectric power. Consumers are experiencing only seven hours of electricity per day on a rotational basis.