Economist Attributes Fast-Running Prepaid Electricity Units to Increased Power Usage
Economist Lubinda Habaazoka says complaints from consumers about prepaid electricity units running out faster are largely due to increased power consumption following the return of 24-hour electricity supply, and not as a result of billing errors by ZESCO.
Dr. Habaazoka explained in a statement that ZESCO cannot deduct electricity units that have already been loaded onto certified prepaid meters, noting that the meters only record actual electricity consumption and cannot be manipulated.
He said that during periods of load shedding, households naturally consumed less power due to limited supply. However, with the restoration of stable electricity, families have resumed the use of high-consumption appliances such as electric cookers, geysers, heaters, and other household equipment.
Dr. Habaazoka further noted that inverters and solar power systems also contribute to increased electricity usage when they draw power from the grid for recharging.
He added that while emergency tariffs introduced during periods of power shortages have since been removed, ZESCO’s progressive tariff structure means that electricity costs increase as consumption rises.
Dr. Habaazoka stressed that faster depletion of prepaid units is a result of continuous power availability and higher appliance usage, not hidden deductions, adding that Zambia’s electricity tariffs remain relatively affordable for households with low power consumption.
