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The Zambia Compulsory Standards Agency (ZCSA) says it added solar energy products to its list of regulated items, with enforcement of the new standards set to begin before the end of this quarter.
This followed the issuance of Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 20 of 2025 by the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga, in May, which declared solar product standards mandatory.
Speaking at the ongoing Agriculture and Commercial Show in Lusaka, ZCSA Executive Director, Gerald Chizinga, said the move was aimed at protecting consumers and the environment from substandard and potentially unsafe solar products.
“Last year, we experienced one of the worst droughts in recent memory, which triggered widespread energy shortages. In response, many consumers turned to solar solutions,” Chizinga said.
He said: “However, an unregulated sector invites unsafe and unreliable products into the market.”
Chizinga noted that the 60-day grace period provided under the SI for public awareness had now lapsed, and that the agency was finalising preparations for full enforcement.
“We are on track to begin enforcement before the quarter ends. These standards will ensure the safety, reliability, and quality of solar products available on the market,” he said.
Chizinga added that ZCSA had already trained its staff internally to ensure uniform interpretation and application of the regulations.
Externally, he said the agency was planning roadshows, workshops, and other stakeholder engagement activities to raise public awareness.
“This year alone, we have increased the number of products under compulsory standards from 61 to 102. It’s a major leap, and we are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation,” Chizinga said.
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