Fight Inequality Alliance (FIA) Zambia has hailed the decision by regulators to investigate the fast depletion of prepaid electricity units.
Alliance National Council Convener Mwiza Zulu observed that the inspection of prepaid meters by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), ZESCO, Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA), and Zambia Metrology Agency would help establish whether consumers were being billed fairly.
Ms. Zulu explained that the unexplained rapid consumption was widening the inequality gap between the wealthy and the poor.
“Households with limited income are being disproportionately affected by the faster loss of units,” she observed.
She highlighted that transparency in electricity metering was vital to protect vulnerable families.
Ms. Zulu pointed out that many households were struggling to cope with rising costs linked to the rapid depletion.
“Accountability from ZESCO and regulators is necessary to restore public confidence,” Ms. Zulu said.
She stressed that corrective measures must be taken promptly if irregularities are discovered.
“Cooperation between consumers and inspection teams would strengthen the credibility of the process,” she added.
Ms. Zulu reaffirmed that FIA Zambia remains committed to fighting inequality and ensuring fairness in essential services.
Recently, Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote directed ZESCO and the Energy Regulation Board to investigate concerns from citizens that prepaid electricity units are depleting faster than usual, and submit a report on the matter by 16th March, 2026.
