LUSAKA, Nov. 28 (Xinhua) -- Zambia's energy regulator has introduced licenses for importers of solar equipment in order to curb the influx of sub-standard products, a statement seen on Monday said.
The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) said all wholesale importers of solar equipment into the country will be required to obtain a license with effect from January 1, 2017.
"This is to ensure that all products being imported conform to the relevant quality standards for products as there has been a noticeable increase in substandard solar products flooding the market. Importers will be required to produce a copy of their license at the border of entry to the relevant Zambia Bureau of Standards and customs officials," the statement said.
The regulator noted that licensing will be restricted to firms that will be manufacturing, importing and installing solar systems while traders will not be licensed as long as they purchase their stocks locally from licensed importers.
Zambia has witnessed a rise in the use of solar equipment following a power deficit the country has been facing since June 2015. Enditem