Zambia to Import Electricity From Tanzania Due to Drought

Zambia’s state-owned electricity utility, Zesco, is taking significant steps to mitigate a looming energy crisis that threatens to impact the nation’s economic stability, particularly its crucial mining sector. The country, which relies heavily on hydropower for 86% of its electricity, is experiencing severe power generation issues due to an El Nino-induced drought.

This weather phenomenon, characterized by the abnormal warming of Pacific Ocean waters, has led to a drastic reduction in rainfall and subsequently, water levels in hydroelectric reservoirs.

Zesco has announced plans to import electricity to cover an expected deficit of 700 megawatts for the year. The utility is in negotiations to strategically allocate this imported power to key sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing to support economic stability and growth. Although the specifics of the import agreements, including the amount of power and the sources, have not been disclosed, the move underscores the urgent need to address the energy shortfall.

Read More: Zambia Enforces Electricity Rationing in Response to Drought Emergency

This power crisis comes at a challenging time for Zambia’s mining industry. Last year, the country’s copper output fell to approximately 698,000 tons from 763,000 tons in 2022, partly due to energy constraints. Copper is a vital commodity for Zambia, being Africa’s second-largest producer, and any further disruptions in power supply could have serious implications for production levels and economic performance.

Zesco’s efforts to import power highlight the broader impacts of climate change on hydropower-dependent countries. With reduced water allocations from critical sources like the Kariba Dam, Zambia faces ongoing challenges in maintaining reliable electricity supply. The utility’s plan to import power for at least the next 12 months aims to stabilize the situation, but it also indicates a need for long-term strategies to diversify the country’s energy mix and reduce reliance on hydropower.

The energy crisis has sparked discussions about alternative energy sources, including solar and wind, which could provide more sustainable and reliable power in the face of climate variability. Meanwhile, Zesco continues to work on mitigating the current crisis and ensuring that key industries remain operational despite the power constraints.