ERB collects over K800 million in license fees in 2025

According to the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) […]

According to the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) 2025 Annual Report, the Board collected K845 million in non-tax revenue from licence fees in 2025, exceeding the Government’s target of K693 million.

The report indicates that the collection was 22% above the 2025 target and represented a 19% increase from the K711 million collected in 2024. The report seen by the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, further showed that ERB intensified revenue enforcement and debt recovery from licensees during the year to improve collections.

 Meanwhile, ERB issued 506 licences and 114 construction permits in 2025, with the approvals covering the electricity, petroleum and renewable energy sub-sectors. In an interview with the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, Economic Expert, Samuel Lungu said the K845 million collection shows increased activity and investment in Zambia’s energy sector.

 He said the expert said the K845 million collected should generate tangible benefits for citizens, proposing that part of the revenue could support energy access for rural households and small businesses while encouraging greater participation of Zambian contractors.

 “Right now we’re collecting well but the next priority should be ensuring that the revenue and investment generated from the energy sector translate into stable power, improved fuel security, jobs and stronger economic activity,” said Lungu.

 “The 19% growth tells us that companies are investing in electricity, petroleum and renewable energy while energy demand continues to rise,” said Lungu.

 He added that the 114 construction permits should translate into new infrastructure, including power projects, fuel facilities and other investments that could support jobs and improve energy security.

“Those 114 construction permits are shovels in the ground, and the Government must now track whether approved projects are being completed rather than focusing only on the number of permits issued,” said Lungu.

 By Philip Sinkala