Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
Cabinet has authorized ZESCO Limited to start importing power from neighboring countries from now till December 2015 which will cost the company US$60 million.
And the power utility company is expected to lose US$97 million due to reduced sales to customers, US$116 million overflow funding and US$70 million due to reduced sales to distribution customers as a result of load shedding.
Briefing journalists on the outcome of today’s 13th Cabinet meeting at State House, Chief Government Spokesperson Chishimba Kambwili says cabinet has authorized ZESCO to import 100 mega watts of power from neighboring countries.
Mr. Kambwili says ZESCO has also been directed to ensure that the 120 mega watts Itezhi – Tezhi power station is commissioned as planned in August 2015 to help the nation in view of the current load shedding.
Mr. Kambwili states that the power utility company is also directed to ensure the ongoing load shedding continues in order to protect the power generation equipment from damage due to reduced water levels.
He says the ZESCO and private sector partners have also been urged to commission the 150MW Maamba Coal Powered Station in November as a long term measure to address load shedding.
The Chief Government Spokesperson has further disclosed that ZESCO has been directed to reduce the hours of load shedding from the current eight to four per day and ensure the load shedding programme is implemented in an equitable manner.
Meanwhile cabinet has approved the construction of the Mausoleum for the late President Michael Sata at Embassy Park.
Mr. Kambwili said cabinet has also approved the construction of future Presidential Mausoleums and supporting facilities at other designated areas.
Other approvals are; the opening of a Consulate-General in Guangzhou City in Guangdong Province in China, revision of National Tourism Policy, appointment of Members of the Zambia Center for Accountancy Studies (ZCAS) Board among others.