Economic Analyst Yusuf Dodia says the 3hrs of power supply to residential areas on a rational basis per day, will worsen the already high cost of living Zambians are facing.
ZESCO on Monday announced that residential areas will only receive power for 3hrs per day, due to a significant power shortfall.
But speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka today, Mr. Dodia said that residents will now have to spend more by investing in alternative lighting, refrigeration and heating.
“Zambians now have to stretch their resources to ensure they meet their needs in view of the extended loadshedding hours,” said Mr. Dodia.
And Mr. Dodia expressed concern that the extended power outages will increase the market for charcoal which he said is detrimental in the fight against climate change.
He said ordinary Zambians would prefer using charcoal because of its perceived cheap price and availability.
Angel Kasabo
