However, this growth has been marred by a troubling rise in electrical accidents, many of which have been fatal. The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has identified substandard solar panel products and poor installations as the primary culprits behind these incidents. This article delves into the alarming statistics, the regulatory response, and the steps being taken to ensure safer solar installations in Zimbabwe.

The Alarming Statistics

The statistics are stark and sobering. According to ZERA, at least 27 deaths have been reported this year alone due to electrical accidents involving solar installations. This is a significant increase from the 45 deaths recorded last year. 

Over 200 notifications of electrical accidents have been made, highlighting the urgent need for regulatory intervention.

Causes of Electrical Accidents

ZERA's senior engineer, Man’arai Ndovorwi, has pointed out that the primary causes of these accidents are substandard solar products and poor installation practices. "We lose about three to four people every month due to bad installations, and we have heard a lot of complaints coming from the market in terms of people being sold fake products, as well as poor quality of products," Ndovorwi stated.

Regulatory Response: The Espira Act

In response to these alarming trends, ZERA has introduced the Energy Solar Products and Installation Regulations Act (Espira). This new legislation aims to bring order and safety to the rapidly growing solar sector. During a recent stakeholder engagement in Bulawayo, ZERA gathered public views on the draft of Espira, focusing on the quality of solar products and the qualifications of those installing them.

Ensuring Quality and Safety

One of the key provisions of the Espira Act is that all solar products imported into Zimbabwe must conform to local standards, which are regulated by the Standards Association of Zimbabwe. This measure is intended to curb the influx of counterfeit and substandard products that have flooded the market.

Additionally, the Act mandates that individuals involved in installing solar systems must undergo proper training. This training will cover the design and installation of solar systems, as well as the safety mechanisms that need to be in place to prevent accidents.

The Role of Proper Installation

Proper installation is crucial to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of solar systems. Ndovorwi emphasized that many accidents occur because people attempt to install solar systems themselves without the necessary expertise. This is particularly dangerous when solar systems are combined with existing ZESA installations. "If the workmanship has not been done properly, this actually results in electrocutions happening," Ndovorwi warned.

The Danger of Fowl Runs

A specific area of concern highlighted by ZERA is the installation of solar systems in fowl runs. Many households extend their electricity connections to these structures for chicken rearing, often without proper safety measures. This has led to numerous accidents, as people are electrocuted inside these poorly installed setups.

New Safety Measures: Mandatory Breakers

To further enhance safety, ZERA has introduced a new regulation requiring the installation of mandatory breakers in all households. These breakers are designed to detect even the smallest faults and isolate the circuit, thereby preventing accidents. "For most of the people who have been electrocuted in houses and homes, their breakers are not able to pick the fault. The system does not trip until the person dies, but with these new ones that are now being introduced, it’s going to pick even the minimum fault that will be there," explained Thubelihle Ndlovu, Bulawayo and Matabeleland region electrical inspector.

Substandard Solar Installations Fuel Infernos: Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) 

The rise in electrical accidents related to solar installations in Zimbabwe is a serious concern that requires immediate action. The introduction of the Espira Act and the mandatory installation of breakers are significant steps towards ensuring the safety of solar energy users. However, it is crucial for consumers to be vigilant and ensure that they purchase quality products and hire qualified professionals for installations. By doing so, Zimbabwe can continue to harness the benefits of solar energy while minimizing the risks.