Electricity Rates in Zambia
ZESCO Tariffs · ERB Regulated · Updated March 2026
Current ZESCO electricity tariffs for residential and commercial consumers in Zambia. Tariffs regulated by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB).
0 – 100 kWh
ZMK 0.15/kWh
101 – 300 kWh
ZMK 0.50/kWh
301 – 500 kWh
ZMK 0.89/kWh
500+ kWh
ZMK 1.25/kWh
Residential Electricity Tariffs
0 – 100 kWh
Lifeline tariff (subsidised)
ZMK 0.15/kWh
101 – 300 kWh
Standard domestic use
ZMK 0.50/kWh
301 – 500 kWh
Higher consumption
ZMK 0.89/kWh
500+ kWh
Premium consumption band
ZMK 1.25/kWh
Tariffs set by ERB. Commercial and industrial rates are higher. Last review: January 2026.
Monthly Electricity Cost Estimates
| Household Type | Est. Monthly |
|---|---|
| Small household (1-2 people) Lights, phone charging, TV | ZMK 120 – 250 |
| Medium household (3-5 people) Fridge, TV, lights, cooking | ZMK 350 – 700 |
| Large household / AC user Air conditioning, geyser, appliances | ZMK 800 – 2,000 |
| Small business / shop Commercial tariff applies | ZMK 1,200 – 4,000 |
How to Buy Prepaid Electricity
Via ZESCO Mobile App
Download from Google Play/App Store, enter meter number, pay by mobile money or card
Via Mobile Money (MTN/Airtel)
Dial *330# (Airtel) or *303# (MTN), select ZESCO, enter meter number and amount
Via Bank Transfer
Most Zambian banks support ZESCO bill pay through internet banking and USSD
At ZESCO Customer Service
Visit any ZESCO office or authorised agent for in-person top-up
Electricity in Zambia — What You Need to Know
Zambia's electricity is supplied primarily by ZESCO Limited, the state-owned utility company. Over 85% of Zambia's electricity comes from hydroelectric power, mainly from Kariba Dam and Kafue Gorge. This makes Zambia vulnerable to drought-related power shortages and load-shedding.
Load-Shedding & Alternatives
During periods of low water levels, ZESCO implements load-shedding schedules of 4-8 hours per day. Many households and businesses invest in alternatives: solar panels (from ZMK 8,000 for a basic home system), generators (from ZMK 5,000 for 2kVA), or inverter batteries (from ZMK 3,000). The government is encouraging private solar investment through the REFiT program.
Saving on Your Electricity Bill
The biggest residential electricity consumers are electric geysers (40% of the bill), air conditioning (25%), and cooking (15%). Switching to a solar water heater can cut your bill by 30-40%. Using LED bulbs instead of incandescent saves up to 80% on lighting costs. Consider LPG gas cooking — a 15kg cylinder at ZMK 350-420 lasts 2-3 months and is often cheaper than electric cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the current ZESCO electricity tariffs in Zambia?
ZESCO uses a tiered tariff system. Residential rates start at ZMK 0.15/kWh for the first 100 kWh (lifeline tariff), ZMK 0.50/kWh for 101-300 kWh, ZMK 0.89/kWh for 301-500 kWh, and ZMK 1.25/kWh above 500 kWh. Tariffs are regulated by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) and reviewed periodically.
How do I buy prepaid electricity in Zambia?
You can buy prepaid electricity via the ZESCO mobile app, mobile money (MTN MoMo *303# or Airtel Money *330#), internet banking, or at ZESCO offices and authorised agents. You need your prepaid meter number. Minimum top-up is typically ZMK 10.
Why is there load-shedding in Zambia?
Load-shedding occurs when electricity demand exceeds supply. Zambia relies heavily on hydroelectric power (Kariba Dam, Kafue Gorge), and low water levels due to drought reduce generation capacity. ZESCO implements scheduled power cuts to manage the deficit. Many households invest in solar panels or generators as backup.
How can I reduce my electricity bill in Zambia?
Switch to LED bulbs (save up to 80% on lighting), use energy-efficient appliances, set AC to 24-25°C, unplug devices when not in use, and consider solar water heaters instead of electric geysers. Cooking with LPG gas instead of electric stoves can also significantly reduce electricity consumption.
What is the ZESCO connection fee for a new house?
New connection fees vary by area and connection type. Standard single-phase residential connection costs ZMK 1,500-3,000 including the meter. Three-phase connections for larger homes cost ZMK 4,000-8,000. Processing takes 2-6 weeks depending on infrastructure availability in your area.