Published: 1 hour ago

Zimbabwe is experiencing a sharp rise in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) usage as households increasingly shift away from unreliable electricity supplies, with regulators describing the trend as a positive step toward easing pressure on the national power grid.

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) says LPG consumption surged from 77 million kilogrammes in 2024 to 135 million kilogrammes in 2025 - nearly doubling within a year.

ZERA communications and public affairs manager Lindiwe Nyoni said the increase reflects growing consumer confidence in LPG as a safer and more reliable energy source for cooking and heating.

"As the regulator, we are happy that our consumers have embraced alternative energy," she said. "We have seen a rapid increase in the uptake of LPG gas."

She added that households are increasingly using gas for cooking and water heating as electricity shortages persist.

Zimbabwe has faced recurring electricity shortages in recent years due to limited generation capacity, ageing infrastructure, and reduced water levels at major hydroelectric facilities such as Kariba Dam.

The resulting load-shedding has forced many households and businesses to seek alternative energy sources, with LPG emerging as a preferred option in urban areas.

Nyoni said the shift is helping reduce pressure on the electricity system, allowing available power to be directed toward critical sectors such as industry, healthcare, and mining.

"This helps stabilise the national grid and reduce demand," she said.

Energy experts have similarly noted that wider adoption of LPG could improve electricity availability for productive sectors of the economy.

Compared to traditional fuels such as firewood and charcoal, LPG is widely regarded as a cleaner alternative that reduces indoor air pollution and limits environmental degradation caused by deforestation.

Despite safety concerns that have sometimes slowed adoption, regulators insist LPG remains a safe and effective household energy solution when properly used.

Authorities are now encouraging further uptake of LPG as part of a broader energy transition strategy aimed at diversifying household energy sources and improving resilience in the face of ongoing electricity constraints.

With demand rising rapidly, Zimbabwe's energy landscape appears to be gradually shifting toward greater reliance on gas - a trend that could reshape household energy consumption patterns in the years ahead.
- Newsday

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