By Nobleman Runyanga

The recent decision by Government to waive import duty on imported solar kits to increase the uptake of solar energy amid the ongoing electricity supply challenges is paying fruits, a local solar energy dealer has indicated.

Speaking during an interview with the Harare Post last week, Asani Major of UTGE Solar Systems gave out that the decision had seen increased interest in the use of solar energy by both individuals and some companies.

“Since the announcement we have been inundated by inquiries from people who wish to know about solar energy and how they can benefit from it. The decision means that going forward, it will be cheaper than before to purchase and install solar systems, hence the increased interest from potential users. ,” said Major of UTGE Solar System.

The solar products duty free regime has also excited some sectors of the economy such as players in the hospitality industry.

“Apart from individuals, we have also noted an increase in inquiries from hoteliers and other players in the hospitality industry who are seeking to move from conventional electricity power to solar energy especially for gadgets such as geysers. This is being driven by two issues, the ongoing power challenges and Government’s announcement last week that players in the hospitality industry would be expected to pay their electricity bills in foreign currency,” Major said.

Asked about the impact of the announcement on the affordability of solar products on the local market, Major highlighted that the effect would not be immediate.

“There are is still some stock which was bought by distributors before the announcement. It will take something like three months before this is cleared but unfortunately in Zimbabwe, most dealers do not pass the price reduction down to the consumer. If prices are going to fall, it is going to be the result of increased competition among dealers more than the direct result of the new duty regime,” he said.

Regarding how prospective users of solar energy could benefit from the solar drive in view of the prevalence of some unscrupulous dealers and cheap products on the market, Major advised members of the public to deal with professional solar energy dealers.

“There are a lot of dodgy dealers and poor products on the market. Some people are lured into the hands of unscrupulous dealers by ridiculously low prices. Last week we handled the case of someone who was charged $2 900 for a solar system by a dealer. The customer was attracted by the low price which is not even enough to buy an original solar battery. Such a system does not last long.

“When such dealers are confronted, they accuse their customers of not using the system as they were directed thereby walking out of the responsibility for the buyers’ loss scot free. People should just deal with genuine and professional solar companies,” Major said.

He further advised those who choose to import their own solar equipment to seek the assistance of experts in the industry to assess their needs and prescribe the correct products and specifications as many were losing out by bringing in equipment which did not address their requirements.