Regularly criticized for its operational problems, Zesco, Zambia’s state-owned electricity generation and distribution company, acknowledged on Friday 13 March that its overall electricity supply deficit had increased by nearly 20% since September, despite massive price hikes and government support for green energy projects to combat drought-induced electricity shortages. The information was given by Zesco’s Director of General Services, Patrick Mwila, who was present at a press conference and who also said that the electricity deficit had increased to 810 megawatts, compared to 690 megawatts in September. However, the country’s major mining operators, such as First Quantum Minerals, Barrick Gold Corp and Glencore, should not be affected by these difficulties, the Zambian official said.