The Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority is purchasing 6 million energy-conserving light bulbs for Zimbabwean homes aiming to free some 200 megawatts for commercial use.
ZESA Public Relations Manager Fullard Gwasira said the bulbs, to be procured at a cost of US$12 million, will replace the incandescent bulbs now used by most Zimbabweans.
Gwasira said the power-saving bulbs are a short-term measure to reduce load-shedding.
Electrical engineer Steve Haddon said the energy conserving bulbs will benefit users and “if the free ZESA bulbs expire they can purchase new ones from a lot of electrical companies selling them in the country.”
But Progressive Bulawayo Residents Association Organizing Secretary Ambrose Sibindi said ZESA should first have tackled its billing problems.
ZESA is currently producing 1,400 megawatts against a national requirement of 2,200 megawatts, and imports electricity from Mozambique and Zambia.
ZESA Public Relations Manager Fullard Gwasira said the bulbs, to be procured at a cost of US$12 million, will replace the incandescent bulbs now being used by most Zimbabwean households