Energy Expert Johnson Chikwanda says Zesco’s decision to import about 300 megawatts of electricity from Tanzania will help to implement the African Union's vision of creating an African single electricity market by connecting the 5 regional electricity markets in Africa.
Dr. Chikwanda who has welcomed this development says it will also contribute to regional integration and trade by linking the Southern African Power Pool with the East African Power Pool.
In an interview with Phoenix News, Dr. Chikwanda explains that when Zambia connects to the Tanzanian electricity grid, it will help support and sustain electricity trade between markets from regions with surplus power to those with deficits, thereby improving overall energy security in the region.
He adds that the interconnection between the Southern African and East African Power Pools will result in cost savings and increased reliability of electricity supply for both Zambia and Tanzania, as well as other neighboring countries.
Zesco Limited has established a special department to hasten the installation of a new line that will import approximately 300 megawatts of power from Tanzania within the period of nine months.
PHOENIX NEWS