Factors influencing low-income households in substituting traditional charcoal with alternative energy sources for cooking in Northwestern and Lusaka Province, Zambia

A study analyzed data from 324 households in Zambia from Lusaka and Northwestern provinces to understand factors influencing the shift from traditional fuels like firewood and traditional charcoal to alternative energy sources. In rural areas of Northwestern Province, the education level of the household head and cooking duration significantly impacted energy choices. Conversely, in urban areas of Lusaka Province, wealthier and more educated households showed a higher propensity to adopt cleaner cooking fuels. However, despite higher income levels and access to grid electricity, many urban households in Lusaka continued using traditional charcoal. Beyond income, factors such as load shedding and cooking time considerations also influenced energy decisions. The study recommends promoting diverse cooking energy options—such as solar energy, Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), and briquettes or pellets—especially in urban areas with higher incomes, to serve as backups during electricity crises or complement fuelwood. Additionally, it emphasizes considering location-specific factors when advocating for these alternatives.