Zambia: Authorities have reduced nationwide power cuts to eight hours daily until further notice, as of Jan. 31 /update 2

Authorities in Zambia have reduced nationwide power cuts to eight hours daily until further notice as of Jan. 31.

Event

Zambia's energy provider, ZESCO, reduced nationwide power cuts from 12 hours to eight hours daily, Jan. 19. The revised power schedule, which is available by clicking here, remains in effect as of Jan. 31. This follows the reopening of the Maamba power plant following maintenance. Power cuts remain necessary due to the ongoing water shortage affecting the Kariba Dam. Zambia's electricity grid is reportedly short 470MW. Water levels have risen from under two percent to seven percent capacity through January, leading to the possibility of a resumption of operations within the next few months.

Temporary commercial and communications disruptions are possible while load management and unscheduled disruptions occur; cellular and mobile services could be affected. Traffic disruptions and longer driving times are possible during these periods due to malfunctioning traffic signals. Power outages could also result in the temporary unavailability of essential services such as ATMs and filling stations. There is an increased security threat during power outages. Blackouts could adversely affect security protocols, including alarm systems and electronic fences; opportunistic criminal activity could increase during electricity outages.

Advice

Develop or review business continuity plan (BCP) sections regarding utility outages. Identify business-critical functions that require a power supply. Invest in generators and, if applicable, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units. Power laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and other business or travel-critical appliances regularly. Consult official sources covering planned or unplanned power outages and monitor announcements from the utility.