Zambia Promotes Solar Energy Adoption to Mitigate Electricity Challenges for SMEs
To address the disruptions caused by electricity load shedding, the Zambian government is actively promoting the adoption of solar energy among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The initiative aims to enable businesses to maintain operations smoothly even during power cuts.
Hon. Elias Mubanga, MP, Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, is leading this effort. He emphasized the importance of supporting small businesses through reliable and sustainable energy solutions like solar power.
“We want to ensure small businesses can thrive, even in the face of power outages,” Mubanga stated. “Solar energy offers a dependable alternative.”
The Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, in collaboration with the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC), is facilitating the distribution of solar systems and generators to SMEs. This support will empower them to manage electricity disruptions effectively and sustain their business activities.
Recently, Hon. Mubanga, accompanied by Hon. Elvis Nkandu, Minister of Youth, Sport, and Art, visited SMEs specializing in solar products to understand their operations better and explore avenues for collaboration.
“Our goal is to bolster these enterprises and establish a robust network for solar energy,” Mubanga affirmed.
During their visit, the ministers encouraged solar product suppliers to form an association and submit a proposal to the government outlining how they can enhance the supply of solar products with governmental assistance.
This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to increase the use of renewable energy sources and reduce dependence on traditional power supplies.
By facilitating the adoption of solar technology among SMEs, the government aims to foster a conducive business environment and promote sustainable economic growth.
