Assessing the Impact of Load Shedding and Coping Strategies on Business Operations of Small Scale Enterprises: Masala Market in Ndola, Zambia

Abstract

Key Findings - The most common coping strategies among small-scale enterprises include: - Adjusting working hours to avoid peak load-shedding times. - Employing part-time labour. - Temporarily relocating operations to areas unaffected by power cuts. Effectiveness of Strategies - The study found that most of these strategies were not very effective. - Prolonged and frequent load shedding significantly disrupts business operations, especially for small-scale enterprises. Recommendations - Forming partnerships with businesses that have a reliable power supply can help sustain operations. - Sharing resources during outages can reduce losses and maintain continuity. - Enterprises are encouraged to invest in energy-efficient or hybrid equipment compatible with both electricity and solar power.

Contribution - The research contributes to theory, policy, and practice by highlighting the need for sustainable energy solutions for small businesses in Zambia.