The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) has approved energy sector licenses and construction permits worth over 1.1 billion kwacha.
Speaking during an interview with Lusaka Star an economist Kelvin Chisanga said reliable electricity create opportunities for small businesses across the country.
“Stable power allows businesses to operate longer hours, reduces costs, and increases productivity,” Chisanga said.
The projects aims to expand electricity generation, promote renewable energy businesses, and improve national power infrastructure.
Chisanga said solar adoption and net metering can help businesses save and earn extra income.
He highlighted that challenges still remain such as access to financing for energy-efficient technology and limited infrastructure in rural areas.
He further said that ERB approvals and sector reforms could boost national productivity and create a more enabling environment for small business growth.
Meanwhile, a barber shop owner Gift Phiri said electricity supply directly affects his business operations and costs.
“When electricity prices go up, my operating costs rise too, which makes it harder to run the business,” Phiri said.
He added that power outages disrupt services, meaning fewer customers and less revenue.