Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Government will be spending US$ 13.5 million per month to import 300 megawatts of power from South Africa as a measure to ease the power deficit in the Country.
Minister of Energy Mathew Nkhuwa says the cost will go up to US$ 20.5 million per month if other costs are added.
Mr. Nkhuwa says for government to pay this amount of money it will however have to pass on the cost to the consumers.
Speaking at a media briefing to launch his Ministry’s 2018-2021 strategic plan in Lusaka Mr. Nkhuwa explained that whatever power will be imported will be paid for after a period of 30 days of using it.
Mr. Nkhuwa has also told journalists that government is also considering the option of importing additional 300 to 400 megawatts of power from Mozambique.
He says government plans to send a team of technocrats to Mozambique within next week.
And Mr. Nkhuwa notes that the launched strategic plan provides an operational framework and strategic direction for realizing the Ministry of Energy’s mission and vision.
He says the strategic plan is also in line with Zambia’s vision 2030 and the Seventh National Development Plan.