The Struggle of Small Businesses Amid Zambia's Load Shedding Crisis

As Zambia grapples with the onset of 8-hour load shedding, the government's call for citizens to embrace solar energy as an alternative has left many small businesses in a precarious position. With the high cost of solar panels, priced at over K30,000, most SMEs are struggling to afford the transition to renewable energy.

The announcement of prolonged load shedding, that commenced yesterday on March 11, 2024, has casted a dark cloud over the local business landscape. For SMEs, the prospect of operating for only half of the day translates to a significant loss in revenue, especially during peak business hours.

While the idea of harnessing solar energy appears promising, the reality is that the upfront cost of solar systems is prohibitive for many small businesses. The price tag of K30,000 for a solar system capable of powering electrical appliances presents a significant barrier for SMEs with limited financial resources. Additionally, most solar energy solutions cater to appliances with lower energy consumption, such as fridges and televisions, leaving businesses reliant on high-energy devices like welding machines unable to make the switch.

Despite government encouragement, the affordability of solar energy remains a major challenge for citizens, particularly small business owners. A recent inquiry revealed that the cost of a solar system suitable for low-energy appliances is approximately K35,000. This comprehensive system includes components such as inverters, batteries, panels, and installation kits, making it financially unattainable for many SMEs.

Furthermore, some solar energy providers have clarified that the K35,000 systems are only compatible with appliances that have minimal energy requirements. Heating appliances, such as electric kettles and welding machines, are incompatible with solar systems, further limiting the options for businesses seeking alternative energy sources.

In light of these challenges, small businesses find themselves caught between a rock and a hard place, unable to afford the cost of solar energy yet facing significant disruptions due to prolonged load shedding. As the government encourages the adoption of renewable energy, there is a pressing need for affordable solutions tailored to the needs of SMEs, ensuring that no business is left behind in the transition to sustainable power sources.