Data flows and coordination for decentralised energy planning in Zambia

Report

Decentralised energy planning can be used to deliver quicker access to cleaner and more sustainable energy, and to achieve broader developmental objectives such as better livelihoods in rural and low-income communities. However, effective decentralised energy planning is anchored on good quality data, effective data flows and efficient coordination between local-level and national-level actors. Given the plans of the Zambian government to devolve the energy sector by 2024, it is important to assess the status of energy data sources, data flow systems and coordination amongst stakeholders. Based on input from two stakeholder workshops and insight from over fifty interviewees from local councils and other stakeholders, our study established that there is currently inadequate data sharing and coordination among stakeholders, there is little availability of energy data, and there are inadequate data flow systems to support effective decentralised energy planning and provision in Zambia. To ensure effective energy sector devolution, the government must put in place minimum viable data requirements and data sharing policies; undertake capacity building in energy data collection, analysis and reporting; and promote the involvement of local communities and traditional leaders in energy decision making and planning.

Authors: Maboshe, M; Leonard, A; Bickersteth, S; McCulloch, N; Hirmer, SA

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Reviewed (other)
• Publisher: Climate Compatible Growth (CCG)
• Series: CCG Policy Briefs
• Place of publication: Loughborough
• Publication date: 2023-03-01
• Language: English
• Keywords: Zambia; devolution; decentralisation; electrification; energy access; energy planning