Electricity tariffs have come under intense public scrutiny, with many citizens taking to social media to complain that their electricity units are depleting faster and have become too expensive.
Responding to the concerns, ZESCO Managing Director Justin Loongo says the situation is largely linked to how Zambia’s progressive electricity tariff system works.
Mr. Loongo explains that the tariff structure is designed to protect low-income households while encouraging efficient energy use.
Under this system, the first 100 kilowatt-hours consumed by domestic users are charged at a lower rate, while any consumption beyond that threshold attracts a higher charge per unit.
He says this approach ensures that households with minimal electricity needs are shielded from high costs, while those who consume more contribute proportionately to the sustainability of the power sector.
According to ZESCO, this model also allows for cross-subsidization, where higher-usage customers help support the maintenance and expansion of the electricity network for the benefit of all users.
Mr. Loongo further clarifies that electricity units may appear to deplete faster when households move into higher consumption bands, where the cost per unit increases.
He says this often creates the impression that tariffs have suddenly risen, when in fact the billing system is responding to increased usage rather than a change in rates.
By Rachel Mumba
