In Zambia, there is consensus that off-grid solar (OGS) solutions provide an untapped opportunity that can significantly contribute towards achieving the country’s electrification goals. An overall assessment revealed several gaps and limitations in awareness levels on the benefits of stand-alone solar (SAS) in the country. Furthermore, there were several identified challenges and barriers relating to the administration of solar energy solutions. These include, a perception of solar energy as an inferior source of electricity among some communities, lack of information on quality solar products, lack of information on how to use solar as an energy mix as well as general misapplication or misuse of solar energy systems.
Accordingly, this Publicity and Information Dissemination Strategy was developed to enable the Rural Electrification Authority (REA) to better support the effective delivery of OGS communications and raise greater awareness of these technologies particularly for rural households. As well as this, to engage in effective advocacy around consumer protection, after-sale service, and maintenance of products.
This strategy supplements REA’s current Communication and Stakeholder Management Strategy which is aligned to the overall institutional Strategic Plan (2019-2021).