Domestic electric consumers response to load-shedding: A case study of Kitwe, Zambia

Zambia has been experiencing an acute electrical energy deficit since June 2015 caused by insufficient water levels at its primary hydro stations. The national utility company subsequently instituted a load-shedding program as means of coping with the energy deficit. Under the program, customers are nominally disconnected from electricity eight hours each day. This research investigates what coping strategies have been adopted by residential consumers in response to load-shedding. The paper focuses on consumers in Kitwe, a city in the Copperbelt province of Zambia. Data were collected using questionnaires administered in Chimwemwe (low income), Ndeke (medium income) and Riverside (high income) townships. The information collected was both quantitative and qualitative. Preliminary research has revealed that the household lifestyle changes such as load shifting and fuel switching, among others, have occurred. The results provide insight into the effects of load-shedding on domestic consumers and the environment, thus advising the relevant authorities on policy guidance regarding national energy planning. The results can also be interpolated on other Sub-Saharan countries with similar demographic distribution and energy usage.