By Jane Chanda
Rural Electrification Authority (REA) chief executive officer (CEO) Linus Chanda has disclosed that Kalaba Mine found in North-Western Province which has been relying on expensive diesel generators, has approached the authority on the possibility of being supplied with electricity.
In an interview with Daily Revelation yesterday, Chanda said REA was already talking with the company following their decision to approach them.
“We are already talking to them, and they have already approached us first. We have to develop a commercial relationship, and as soon as we conclude that, they’ll be able to pick power from Kasanjiku,” Chanda said.
He noted that REA’s primary focus was on developing mini-hydro power plants, enabling mines to access electricity.
“Mines can approach the REA once these plants are developed,” said Chanda.
When asked about other rural mines being electrified, Chanda said it was dependant on where REA developed it’s mini hydro.
He said once developed, mines were free to approach REA and the authority had no problem with it.
According to Chanda, REA aimed to reach at least 51 percent of rural communities by 2030, having completed 188 grid extension projects benefiting over 1 million direct and indirect beneficiaries.
“With continued efforts, the authority aims to transform the lives of rural communities through sustainable electrification,” he said.
Mining and Minerals Expert Mulenga Chikwamo urged REA to consider electrifying small and artisanal mines in rural areas as reported by Radio Phoenix.
Chitambo pointed out that many small mines like Kalaba Mine had been relying on expensive diesel generators for years, hindering productivity.
“Some of the mini hydro-power plants are constructed close to small mines, like Kalaba Mine, which has been operating on diesel for almost four years,” Chikwamo said.
He said by transitioning from diesel-powered equipment to electric, mining operations could significantly lower energy costs by up to 70 percent and maintenance costs for vehicles by around 30 percent.
The mining expert emphasised that electrification would increase efficiency, with electric equipment offering faster cycle times, fewer breakdowns and improved material transport.
