THE Government has urged the private sector to utilise the duty free importation of renewable energy equipment.

Mines, Energy and Water Development Deputy Minister Charles Zulu said the full utilisation of the duty free services in the sector, would increase the penetration of renewable technologies and products on the local market at the most affordable prices.

This was contained in a speech read on his behalf by Permanent secretary Victor Mutambo, at the official opening of the renewable energy conference in Lusaka.

He said the move by the Government to provide duty exemptions, was aimed at making the products more available to the consumers and not to increase profit margins for suppliers.

Mr Zulu said players in the sector should ensure that they complimented government efforts in developing the sector.

He said the Government had taken several measures to ensure that renewable energy plays its key role in the country.

"The country needs to switch to modern use of biomass, solar, wind, biofuels, geo-thermal and all the renewable energy sources whose potential we have in abundance," he said.

The deputy minister noted that full development of the renewable sector and the energy sector as a whole, needs combined efforts from all players.