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The Ministry of Energy has attributed delays in the implementation of critical electricity infrastructure projects to continued non-compliance with wayleave and clearance regulations, warning that the trend was undermining efforts to expand the country’s power network.
Speaking during the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) stakeholder engagement meeting in Lusaka at Mulungushi International Conference Centre, Ministry of Energy Assistant Director for Energy, Michael Mulasikwanda, said the sector was facing increasing challenges arising from encroachment on electricity wayleaves and disregard for established regulations.
Mulasikwanda said failure to adhere to wayleave and clearance requirements had delayed the construction of key electricity projects across the country, affecting efforts to improve energy access and infrastructure development.
“Cases of encroachment on electricity wayleaves had continued to rise, resulting in land disputes that complicate project implementation,” he said.
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Mulasikwanda further expressed concern that non-compliance with the regulations had contributed to fatal accidents involving electricity infrastructure, stressing the need for all stakeholders to observe the law in order to protect lives and property.
He called for greater awareness and adherence to the regulations to ensure the smooth execution of energy projects and improve safety standards in the sector.
Meanwhile, ERB Director, Joseph Malama, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to effectively enforce wayleave and clearance regulations.
“Addressing the challenges associated with encroachment and non-compliance required a coordinated approach involving government institutions, local authorities, utility companies and communities,” Malama said.
He disclosed that the ERB had spent the last three months engaging various stakeholders to strengthen compliance and promote a shared understanding of the regulations governing electricity infrastructure.
Malama said enhanced cooperation would help curb encroachment on wayleaves, improve public safety and facilitate the timely delivery of electricity projects aimed at supporting Zambia’s economic growth and development.
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