The Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) has called on alternative energy suppliers to pass on the benefits of tax incentives to consumers by offering more reasonable and affordable prices.
ZRA Corporate Communications Manager Oliver Nzala stated that the government has introduced tax incentives for alternative energy products to help alleviate the negative effects of prolonged drought and resulting load shedding on local businesses.
Nzala noted, however, that despite these incentives, high prices for solar energy equipment are still a barrier for many people trying to access alternative electricity sources.
“In August 2024, ZRA launched the Tax Incentives and Exemptions Guide to inform taxpayers and the public about the various tax incentives available across different sectors.
We believe that when suppliers import solar and other energy equipment duty-free, the public should see these savings reflected in lower prices,” he said.
Nzala also mentioned that increasing the use of solar products will support Zambia’s Vision 2030 goal of achieving universal access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy by 2030.
To address power shortages due to the drought, the Zambian government is encouraging the importation and local production of solar equipment and the adoption of solar power.
“ZRA has made the Tax Incentives Guide available on its website, detailing which goods are exempt from Customs duty, VAT, or Excise duty, and which are fully tax-free,” Nzala added.
Source: Mwebantu
