ZERA Dismisses Viral Claim of US$100 Monthly Solar Tax

ZERA debunks viral US$100 monthly solar tax claim in Zimbabwe, urging households and businesses to rely on verified sources and warning that any legitimate policy changes will follow consultative procedures (image source)

Harare — The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has dismissed a viral social-media claim suggesting a US$100 monthly levy on household solar systems, calling the message false and warning the public against acting on unverified information.

The post, which spread rapidly on WhatsApp and other platforms, caused alarm among homeowners and small businesses that rely on rooftop solar and off-grid systems amid erratic grid supply. ZERA’s official statement described the claim as malicious misinformation and urged consumers to rely only on notices published through verified channels. “There is no proposal, consultation or statutory instrument before ZERA that would introduce a US$100 monthly solar tax,” the regulator said.

Officials noted that the rumour coincided with rising interest in household solar, amplifying its impact. Solar installers and retailers reported spikes in inquiries from concerned customers, while some prospective buyers delayed purchases pending clarity. Industry representatives warned that misinformation could discourage investment in a sector increasingly critical for household resilience and small-business operations.

Analysts identified three factors driving the viral claim: heightened public interest in solar, limited digital literacy among certain users, and a tendency to forward sensational messages without verification. ZERA emphasised that any changes to tariffs, levies, or licensing rules would follow formal processes involving public consultation, published draft regulations, and parliamentary oversight where required. Regulatory experts noted that while ZERA oversees licensing and tariff frameworks, ad hoc taxes would require Treasury approval and legal instruments.

Practical advice for households and businesses:

• Verify official sources: Check ZERA’s website and verified social accounts for policy notices.

• Keep purchase records: Warranties and invoices protect consumers if suppliers change terms.

• Consult installers: Reputable solar providers can clarify current licensing and maintenance obligations.

• Report misinformation: Forward suspicious claims to fact-checking services or regulatory hotlines.

Consumer groups welcomed ZERA’s clarification but called for stronger public education on distributed generation regulation, including plain-language guides on licensing, net-metering, and system-owner responsibilities.

Zimbabwe’s solar market has grown as households and businesses seek reliable power and cost savings. Industry players emphasise that regulatory certainty is crucial to attract investment in local assembly, financing products, and after-sales networks. Misinformation suggesting punitive levies could deter lenders and slow deployment of productive off-grid capacity.

ZERA concluded by urging media outlets and community leaders to help curb the spread of false claims and direct the public to official communications. The regulator reiterated: no US$100 solar tax exists, and any legitimate policy change will follow transparent, consultative procedures.