Evolution of Renewable Energy in the sub-Sahara

Zambia’s electricity demand has outstripped supply. On average, 25% of the country have access to electricity. Zambia’s economy has been growing at average of 5% per annum over the past 10 years and this growth rate has certainly been matched if not exceeded by the growth in demand for electricity. Adding to this, new settlements have been established as well as new businesses, industries and new mines in North Western Province. Electricity demand in Zambia outweighs supply especially during peak hours. The maximum power deficit the country faces is estimated at 1000MW. There was Poor rainfall experienced during the 2014/2015 rain season. This resulted in the low water levels in the reservoirs. ZESCO has been compelled to reduce generation at its major power stations, generally to prevent the failure of the entire system when the demand strains the capacity of the system, resulting in a national capacity deficit of 560 Megawatts and this has led to load shedding or load management.