Energy giant – ZESCO has revealed that it has about 50,000 (50k) backlog of applications for new connections Which the company anticipates to clear within the stipulated timelines, depending on whether it’s a standard or non-standard classification.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Zambian Business Time – ZBT, ZESCO public relations manager Hazel Zulu said the backlog is a reality caused by non-reflective Capital contribution while others are within the stipulated construction timelines.
Zulu stated that “the backlog is a reality caused by non-reflective Capital contribution, to every cost the customers and ZESCO share in the ratio of 3 to 7, for instance, if a customer is charged K3,000, ZESCO must look for K7,000 to supplement the true cost for the connection”.
When asked how long ZESCO takes to connect power after a client has completed the application process, Zulu told ZBT that it depends on what type of application, there are two different timelines for the two types of applications which are standard and non-standard.
The standard application includes dropping of service cables and prepaid meter while the non-standard job requires construction works which may include mounting new poles, transformers among other works that may be needed.
She told ZBT that “for both types of connections, the quotation validity period is 90 days [3 months] and customers connection is expected to be done within six (6) months from the date of making payment”. She added that these periods or timelines are also contingent upon availability of materials.
And on the issue of complaints relating to the call center numbers being inaccessible and sometimes calls going unanswered, ZESCO has advised its esteemed customers to use the various platforms that include USSD, the mobile app to interact with the company.
ZESCO urges its customers to its USSD platform by dialing *3600# or download and use the ZESCO mobile App and/or use the new integrated website to log their complaints, digitally track their application and do much more. So, where the call center is congested, there are other options that will ensure the customer is serviced 24/7.
The demand for both domestic and commercial power supply in Zambia continues to expand. Power infrastructure and connectivity remains key to influencing human settlement and growth of economic activities. It is therefore Imperative that Investments into grid extension and energy generation diversification continues to be prioritize to grow the Zambian economy and improve the standard of living for its citizens
