The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) has introduced new mandatory inspection fees for electrical installations and generators as part of efforts to enhance safety and enforce compliance with national electrical standards.

This move comes in response to a rise in house fires and electrical accidents, which have highlighted the need for stricter oversight of electrical systems. In a public notice, ZETDC emphasized that these inspections are crucial in preventing hazards such as electrical fires, shocks, and faulty installations.

Under the new regulations, homeowners and businesses will be required to pay a US$25 fee for inspections and re-inspections of electrical installations. Generator owners will also be subject to verification and safety inspection fees based on the capacity and type of their generators.

Generator Verification and Safety Inspection Fees
Generators up to 100KW (petrol, diesel, solar, wind, etc.): $5.00
Generators above 100KW (petrol, diesel, solar, wind, etc.): $50.00
Advanced Safety Inspection Fees
Generators below 100KW: $20.00
Generators above 100KW: $100.00
Prototype generators below 100KW: $100.00
“These inspections are not just procedural but a vital step in preventing potentially devastating consequences. Unsafe wiring, faulty connections, and non-compliant installations pose serious risks to electricity users and the public,” ZETDC stated.

The power utility urged customers to cooperate with inspection teams, acknowledging that while inspections might cause minor inconveniences, the priority is ensuring the safety of families and properties. Customers were also reminded to make all payments through ZETDC’s official payment platforms, with receipts issued accordingly, and were warned against making payments to individuals during the inspection process.