The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has conducted a consumer awareness campaign in Filabusi aimed at promoting the safe use of energy and improving energy efficiency.
The training session, held at Mthwakazi Hall, brought together representatives from the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ), the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, and local residents.
ZERA officials educated participants on the safe use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), electricity and solar energy as part of efforts to reduce accidents and improve efficiency in communities.
Engineer Tinotenda Machingura demonstrated the correct use of LPG, including proper procedures for switching off gas cylinders. He encouraged those wishing to enter the LPG business to obtain the necessary licences.
Machingura said LPG is efficient and portable, but warned residents to exercise caution when purchasing gas cylinders.
“We encourage people to check the serial number, date of manufacture, tare weight and LPG weight before buying gas cylinders,” he said.
Officials also outlined common complaints received from consumers, including contaminated fuel, overpricing, incorrect fuel dispensing, electricity meter overcharging, unsafe electricity infrastructure, poor solar installations and delays in service connections by ZETDC. Residents were urged to report such cases to ZERA.
Participants were advised to ensure the correct type of fuel is dispensed into their vehicles to avoid mechanical damage. They were also encouraged to hire qualified Class One electricians for electrical installations and to refill gas cylinders only at licensed outlets.
ZETDC representatives warned against illegal electricity connections and the use of improper insulation materials.
“Avoid illegal connections and use insulation tape, not plastics,” said a ZETDC representative.
Another ZERA official, Engineer Thubelihle Ndlovu, said many accidents were caused by unsafe practices, theft and vandalism of electricity infrastructure, as well as non-compliance with safety standards.
She encouraged residents to adopt energy-saving measures such as installing solar geysers and using LED lights, noting that some high-consumption bulbs were banned in 2017.
Solar users were advised to regularly clean their panels to maintain efficiency, while those using electric geysers were encouraged to install timer switches to reduce electricity consumption.
Matabeleland South Provincial Consumer Protection Officer Livhuwani Moyo from the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe reminded residents of their rights and responsibilities.
“You have the right to choose and the right to complain,” she said, adding that consumers are entitled to accurate product information before making purchases.
She also urged residents to act responsibly by protecting the environment, preserving property, reporting counterfeit products and paying bills on time.