February 2006

Zimbabwe Distribution Code -2-

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………………………………….. ………………………. 12
PURPOSE OF DISTRIBUTION CODE………………………………………………………………………………… 12
OBJECTIVES OF THE DISTRIBUTION CODE………………………………… .... ………………………. 13
CONTENT OF THE DISTRIBUTION CODE…………………………………........... ………………………. 13
ABBREVIATIONS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 14

SECTION 1
1 MANAGEMENT OF THE CODE……………………………..…………………………………………………………. 16
1.1 Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 16
1.2 Objective……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 16
1.3 Responsibilities……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 16
1.4 Distribution Code Review Panel……………………………………………………………………………………….. 16
1.5 Standing Committees to deal with specific issues………………………………………………………. 17
1.6 Distribution Code Review Panel Rules…………………………………………………………………………….. 17
1.7 Functions of the Distribution Code Review Panel………………………………………………………… 18
1.8 Distribution Code Review and Revisions Procedures…………………………………………………… 18
1.9 Disputes………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 19
1.9.1 Disputes pertaining to issues not covered by the Distribution Code………………… 19
1.9.2 Continuity of Functioning of Distribution System Users……………………………………… 19
1.9.3 Unforeseen Circumstances………………………………………………………………………………………….. 20

SECTION 2……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 21
2. DISTRIBUTION CONNECTION CODE……………………………………………… ……………………… 21
2.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE……………………………………………………………………….………………………….. 21
2.1.1 Purpose……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 21
2.1.2 DISTRIBUTION TECHNICAL, DESIGN, AND OPERATIONAL CRITERIA. 21
2.1.3 Frequency Variations………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 22
2.1.4 Voltage Variations……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 22
2.1.5 Power Factor ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 22
2.1.6 Harmonics………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 23
2.1.7 Voltage Unbalance……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 23
2.1.8 Flicker Severity……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 23
2.1.9 Transient Voltage Variations…………………………………………………………………………………………. 23
2.1.10 Protection Arrangements…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 24
2.1.11 Equipment Short Circuit Rating……………………………………………………………………………………. 24
2.1.12 Grounding Requirements………………………………………………………………………………………………. 24
2.1.13 Monitoring and Control Equipment Requirements…………………………………………………… 25
2.1.14 Equipment Standards……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 25
2.1.15 Maintenance Standards……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 25
2.2 PROCEDURES FOR DISTRIBUTION CONNECTION OR MODIFICATION… 26
2.2.1 Connection Agreement……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 26
2.2.2 Amended Connection Agreement………………………………………………………………………………….. 27

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2.2.3 Distribution Impact Studies…………………………………………………………………………………………. 27

2.2.4 Conditions for Disconnection of Supply……………………………………………………………………… 28
2.2.5 Conditions for Reconnection of Supply after disconnection………………………………….. 28
2.2.6 Application for Connection or Modification……………………………………………………………….. 28
2.2.7 Processing of Application……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 29
2.2.8 Submittals Prior to the Commissioning Date……………………………………………………………… 30
2.2.9 Commissioning of Equipment and Physical Connection to the Distribution
System……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 30
2.3 REQUIREMENTS FOR EMBEDDED GENERATORS………………………………………………… 31
2.4 Interconnection Transformer Requirements…………………………………………………………….. 31
2.4.1 Interconnection Transformer Requirements For Non-Synchronous Generators..31
2.4.2 Interconnection Transformer Requirements For Synchronous Generators and
Self-Commutating Inverters……………………………………………………………………………………… 32
2.4.3 Transformer Rating………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 32
2.4.4 Protection Systems for Embedded Generators. ……………………………………………………… 32
2.4.5 Over Current and Earth Fault Protection……………………………………………………………………33
2.4.6 Over and Under Frequency Protection…………………………………………………………………………33
2.4.7 Over And Under Voltage Protection……………………………………………………………………………. 33
2.4.8 No-volts Auto Reclose Protection………………………………………………………………………………… 34
2.4.9 Reverse Power Protection……………………………………………………………………………………………… 34
2.4.10 Safety……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 34
2.4.11 Fault Levels…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 35
2.4.12 System Unbalance………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 36
2.4.13 Frequency Control…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 37
2.4.14 Frequency Withstand Capability………………………………………………………………………………… 37
2.4.15 Speed-Governing System…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 38
2.4.16 Power Islanding……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 38
2.4.17 Voltage Variations…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 39
2.4.18 Voltage and Power Factor Control Requirements…………………………………………………… 40
2.4.19 Special Requirements for Synchronous Generators……………………………………………… 40
2.4.20 Self-Excitation………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 42
2.4.21 Metering Requirements………………………………………………………………………………………………… 43
2.4.22 System Studies……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 44
2.4.23 Dispatch Of Embedded Generators………………………………………………………………………….. 44
2.4.24 Black Start Capability………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 44
2.4.25 Fast Start Capability……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 45
2.4.26 Negative Sequence Voltage………………………………………………………………………………………… 45
2.4.27 Generating Plant Commissioning Tests……………………………………………….………………………45
2.4.27 Harmonics……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 46
2.4.28 Inductive interference………………………………………………………………………………………………… 46
2.4.29 Emergency Response Plan……………………………………………………………………………………………. 46
2.5 Provision Of Information……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 46
2.5.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR DISTRIBUTION CUSTOMERS………………………………………… 49
2.5.2 Protection Arrangements………………………………………………………………………………………………. 49
2.5.3 Transformer Connection and Grounding……………………………………………………………………… 50
2.6 FIXED ASSET BOUNDARY DOCUMENT …………………………………………………………………. 50

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2.6.1 Fixed Asset Boundary Document…………………………………………………………………………………. 50

2.6.2 Accountable Managers……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 51
2.6.3 Preparation of Fixed Asset Boundary Document……………………………………………………… 51
2.6.4 Signing Distribution of Fixed Asset Boundary Document………..………………………………52
2.6.5 Modifications of an Existing Fixed Asset Boundary Document………………………………52
2.6.6 ELECTRICAL DIAGRAM REQUIREMENTS………………………………………………………………..53
2.6.7 Preparation of Electrical Diagrams……………………………………………………………………………… 53
2.6.8 Changes to Electrical Diagrams……………………………………………………………………………………, 54
2.6.9 Validity of Electrical Diagrams…………………………………………………………………………………….. 54
2.6.10 CONNECTION POINT DRAWING REQUIREMENTS………………………………………… 54
[Link] Responsibilities of ZEDC and Customers…………………………………………………………….. 54
2.6.11 Preparation of Connection Point Drawings…………………………………………………………………. 55
2.6.12 Changes to Connection Point Drawings…………………………………………………………………….. 55
2.6.13 Validity of the Connection Point Drawings………………………………………………………………… 56
2.6.14 DISTRIBUTION DATA REGISTRATION……………………………………………………………… 56
[Link] Data to be Registered…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 56
2.6.15 Stages of Data Registration………………………………………………………………………………………. 57
2.6.16 Data Forms……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 58

SECTION 3………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 59
3. PERFORMANCE STANDARDS AND CUSTOMER SERVICES CODE………………….. 59
3.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE……………………………………………………………………………………………. 59
3.1.1 Purpose…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 59
3.1.2 Scope of Application………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 59
3.2 POWER QUALITY STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS………………………………… 59
3.2.1 Power Quality Problems………………………………………………………………………………………………… 59
3.2.2 Frequency Variations………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 60
3.2.3 Voltage Variations……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 60
3.2.4 Harmonics………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 62
2.2.5 Disturbing Loads……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 64
3.2.6 Inductive Interference…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 64
[Link] Negative Sequence Voltage………………………………………………………………………………………… 64
3.2.7 Load Balance……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 65
3.2.8 Power Factor……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 65
3.2.9 Power Factor Penalty……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 66
3.2.10 Voltage Fluctuation and Flicker Severity………………………………………………………………… 66
3.2.11 Indicator of Quality for System Flicker…………………………………………………………………… 67
3.2.12 Limits……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 67
3.2.13 Monitoring Control and Measurement………………………………………………………………………. 68
3.2.14 Voltage Unbalance………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 68
3.2.15 Transient Voltage Variations……………………………………………………………………………………… 69
3.3 RELIABILITY STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS…………………………………………… 69
3.3.1 Criteria for Establishing Distribution Reliability Standards………………………………… 69
3.3.2 Distribution Reliability Indices……………………………………………………………………………………. 69
3.4 Inclusions and Exclusions of Interruption Events…………………………………………………. 70

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code -5-

3.4.4 Submission of Distribution Reliability Reports and Performance Targets………. 71

3.5 SYSTEM EFFICIENCY STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS…………………………. 71
3.5.1 System Loss Classifications……………………………………………………………………………………….. 71
3.5.2 System Loss Cap……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 71
3.5.3 Power Factor at the Connection Point………………………………………………………………………. 72
3.6 CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS………………………………72
3.6.1 Customer Service Standards……………………………………………………………………………………… 72
3.6.2 Measuring Customer Service Performance……………………………………………………………… 72
3.6.3 Customer Service Standards for Distributors………………………………………………………. 73
3.7 Guaranteed Standards of Performance…………………………………………………………………… 73

SECTION 4………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 78
4 DISTRIBUTION PLANNING CODE…………………………………………………………………………….. 78
4.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 78
4.1.1 Purpose…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 78
4.1.2 Scope of Application………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 78
4.2 DISTRIBUTION PLANNING RESPONSIBILITIES AND PROCEDURES………. 78
4.2.1 Distribution Planning Responsibilities…………………………………………………………………………… 78
4.2.2 Submission of Planning Data……………………………………………………………………………………………79
4.2.3 Consolidation and Maintenance of Planning Data………………………………………………………. 80
4.2.4 Evaluation of Proposed Development…………………………………………………………………………… 80
4.2.5 Preparation of Distribution Development Plan…………………………………………………………… 81
4.3 DISTRIBUTION PLANNING STUDIES………………………………………………………………….. 81
4.3.1 Distribution Planning Studies to be Conducted…………………………………………………………. 81
4.3.2 Voltage Drop Studies……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 82
4.3.3 Short Circuit Studies……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 83
4.3.4 System Loss Studies……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 84
4.3.5 Distribution Reliability Studies…………………………………………………………………………………….. 84
4.4 STANDARD PLANNING DATA………………………………………………………………………………. 84
4.4.1 Energy and Demand Forecast…………………………………………………………………………………………. 84
4.4.2 Embedded Generating Unit Data………………………………………………………………………………….. 85
4.4.3 User System Data……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 86
4.5 DETAILED PLANNING DATA……………………………………………………………………………………. 88
4.5.1 Embedded Generating Unit and Embedded Generating Plant Data……………………….. 88
4.5.2 User System Data……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 91

SECTION 5…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 93
5. DISTRIBUTION OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE CODE……………………………… 93
5.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 93
5.1.1 Purpose……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 93
5.1.2 Scope of Application………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 94
5.2 OPERATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES……………………………………………………………………… 94
5.2.1 Operational Responsibilities of the Distributor………………………………………………………… 94
5.2.2 Operational Responsibilities of Embedded Generators…………………………………………… 95
5.2.3 Operational Responsibilities of Other Distribution Users……………………………………… 95
5.3 OPERATIONAL ARRANGEMENTS……………………………………………………………………………. 96

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5.3.1 Mutual Assistance…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 96

5.4 DISTRIBUTION OPERATIONS COMMUNICATIONS, NOTICES,
AND REPORTS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 96
5.4.1 Distribution Operations Communications……………………………………………………………………. 96
5.4.2 Distribution Operations Notices………………………………………………………………………………….. 96
5.4.3 Distribution Operations Reports………………………………………………………………………………….. 97
5.5 DISTRIBUTION MAINTENANCE PROGRAM………………………………………………………… 97
5.5.1 Preparation of Maintenance Program…………………………………………………………………………… 97
5.5.2 Submission and Approval of Maintenance Program…………………………………………………… 98
5.6 DEMAND AND VOLTAGE CONTROL………………………………………………..…………………………99
5.6.1 Demand Control Coordination…………………………………………………………………………………………. 99
5.6.2 Automatic Load Dropping………………………………………………………………………………………………. 100
5.6.3 Manual Load Dropping……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 101
5.6.4 Demand Control Initiated by a User……………………………………………………………………………. 101
5.6.5 Voltage Control ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 102
5.7 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES…………………………………………………………………………………….……102
5.7.1 Preparation for Distribution Emergencies………………………………………………………………….. 102
5.7.2 Significant Incident procedure……………………………………………………………………………………. 103
5.7.3 Operation of Embedded Generating Unit in Island Grid………………………………………… 103
5.7.4 Black Start and Resynchronization Procedures………………………………………………………… 104
5.8 SAFETY COORDINATION……………………………………………………………………………………………. 104
5.8.1 Safety Coordination Procedures…………………………………………………………………………………… 104
5.8.2 Safety Coordinator…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 105
5.8.3 Safety Logs and Record of Inter-System Safety Precautions…………………………….. 106
5.8.4 Location of Safety Precautions……………………………………………………………………………………. 107
5.8.5 Implementation of Safety Precautions………………………………………………………………………. 108
5.8.6 Authorization of Testing……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 109
5.8.7 Cancellation of Safety Precautions……………………………………………………………………………… 109
5.9 DISTRIBUTION TESTING AND MONITORING………………………………………………… 109
5.9.1 Testing Requirements……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 109
5.9.2 Monitoring of User Effect on the Distribution System………………………………………… 110
5.10 SYSTEM TEST………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 111
5.10.1 System Test Requirements…………………………………………………………………………………………… 111
5.10.2 System Test Request…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 111
5.10.3 System Test Group………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 112
5.10.4 System Test Program……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 113
5.10.5 System Test Report………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 115
5.11 EMBEDDED GENERATING UNIT CAPABILITY TESTS…………………………………….. 115
5.11.1 Test Requirements……………………………………………………………………………………………………………115
5.11.2 Tests to be Performed……………………………………………………………………………………………………116
5.12 SITE AND EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION………………………………………………………. 118
5.12.1 Site and Equipment Identification Requirements……………………………………………………. 118
5.12.2 Site and Equipment Identification Label………………………………………………………………….. 118

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SECTION 6……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 119

6. DISTRIBUTION METERING CODE…………………………………………………………………………. 119
6.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 119
6.1.1 Purpose……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 119
6.1.2 Scope of Application……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 119
6.1.3 Provision of Metering Systems…………………………………………………………………………………….. 119
6.2 Provision of Metering Services ………………………………………………………………………………………..120
6.3 Metering requirements for embedded Generators…………………………………………………….. 121
6.4 Metering Requirements At Bulk Supply (ZETCO) Interfaces………………………………….. 121
6.5 Metering Data Manipulation…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 122
6.6 METERING EQUIPMENT STANDARDS……………………………………………………………………. 122
6.6.1 Voltage Transformers……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 122
6.6.2 Current Transformers……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 122
6.6.3 Meters……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 122
6.7 Other Accessories…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 123
6.8 METERING EQUIPMENT TESTING AND MAINTENANCE……………………………… 123
6.8.1 Instrument Transformer Testing………………………………………………………………………………… 123
6.8.2 Meter Testing and Calibration……………………………………………………………………………………… 124
6.8.3 Maintenance of Metering Equipment………………………………………………………………………….. 124
6.8.4 Traceability of Metering Standard …………………………………………………………………………… 124
6.9 METER READING AND METERING DATA…………………………………………………………… 124
6.9.1 Meter Reading and Recording Responsibility…………………………………………………………….. 124
6.12 Collection, Processing, and Access to Metering Data…………………………………………………124
6.11 Storage and Availability of Metering Data………………………………………………………………… 125
6.12 SETTLEMENT AUDIT PROCEDURES……………………………………………………………………… 125
6.13 SETTLEMENT DISPUTE RESOLUTION………………………………………………………………… 126

SECTION 7………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 127

7. DISTRIBUTION PROTECTION CODE ………………………………………………………………………. 127
7.1 Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 127
7.2 Objective………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 127
7.3 General Principles………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 127
7.4 Protection Coordination at the Connection Point…………………………………………………………. 128
7.5 Testing of Protection Equipment……………………………………………………………………………………… 129
7.6 Fault Clearance Times………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 129
7.7 Generator Protection Requirements……………………………………………………………………………….. 129
7.8 Sub transmission (132kV and below) Lines…………………………………………………………………… 130
7.9 Distribution Line Protection Requirements: ………………………………………………………………… 130
7.10 Plain Radial Feeders: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 130
7.10.1 Parallel Feeders/ Ring Feeders: …………………………………………………………………………………. 131
7.10.2 Long Feeders/Transformer Feeders…………………………………………………………………………. 131
7.10.3 Transformer Protection Requirements: …………………………………………………………………… 131
7.11 Generating Station…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 131
7.11.1 Distribution system at Connection Point……………………………………………………………………. 131
7.11.2 Over voltage Protection………………………………………………………………………………………………… 132
7.11.3 Protection against Lightning Over voltages……………………………………………………………… 132

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code -8-

7.11.4 Rod Gaps……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 132

7.11.5 Horn Gaps………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 132
7.11.6 Lightning Masks……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 132
7.11.7 Surge Arrestors…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 132
7.11.8 Protection Against Switching Surges at the Connecting Point…………………………….. 133
[Link] Protection of Compensating Equipment………………………………………………………………….. 133
[Link] Protection of Reactors………………………………………………………………………………………………. 133
[Link] Protection of Capacitors…………………………………………………………………………………………… 133
[Link] Protection of Static Var Compensators………………………………………………………………… 133
7.12 Safety Protection Requirements……………………………………………………………………………………. 133
7.12.1 Fire Protection………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 133
7.12.2 Personnel Protection……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 134
7.12.3 Visitors……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 134
7.12.4 Equipment Switching……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 134
7.12.5 Carrying out Works at the Connection Point……………………………………………………………. 135
7.13 Earthing Requirements For Substations……………………………………………………………………… 135
7.13.1 Earthing Systems……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 135
[Link] Periodic Checks on Earthing Systems……………………………………………………………………… 135
7.14 Data Requirements: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 136

SECTION 8…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 137

8 FINANCIAL CAPABILITY STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTION………………………. 137
8.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 137
8.1.1 Purpose………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 137
8.1.2 Scope of Application………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 137
8.2 FINANCIAL STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS………………………………………………… 137
8.2.1 Financial Ratios…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 137
8.2.2 Leverage Ratios………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 137
8.2.3 Liquidity Ratios…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 139
8.2.4 Financial Efficiency Ratios…………………………………………………………………………………………….. 139
8.2.5 Profitability Ratios………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 140
8.2.6 Submission and Evaluation……………………………………………………………………………………………… 141
8.3 Certification Standards…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 141
8.3.6 Financial Standards for Billing, Collection, and Profitability…………………………………. 142
8.3.7 Organizational and Managerial Resource Requirements………………………………………….. 144
8.3.8 Submission and Evaluation……………………………………………………………………………………………… 145

SECTION 9………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 147

9 INFORMATION EXCHANGE CODE …………………………………………………………………………… 147
9. 1 Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………147
9.2 Information exchange interface…………………………………………………………………………………… 147
9.2.1 Confidentiality of information ……………………………………………………………………………………… 147
9.3 Telephone/Fax…….……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 148
9.4 Electronic Mail…….……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 148
9.5 System planning information…………….……………………………………………………………………………… 149
9.6 Operational information……………….……………………………………………………………………………………. 151

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code -9-

9.5.1 Pre-commissioning studies……………………………………………………………………………………………… 151

9.5.2 Commissioning and notification ……………………………………………………………………………………. 151
9.5.3 General information acquisition requirements…………………………………………………………… 151
[Link] Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) ……………………………………………. 151
[Link] Generation Operational SCADA data………..…………………………………………………………….. 152
[Link] Distribution System Operational SCADA data……………..………………………………………. 152
[Link] Process signals interface to RTU……..………………………………………………………………………. 152
9.7 Unit Scheduling………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 154
9.7.1 Declared Available Capacity………………………………………………………………………………………….. 154
9.7.2 Statement of Reduction and Re-establishment in Declared Available Capacity.. 154
9.73 Scheduled Capacity Requirement…………………………………………………………………………………. 154
9.8 Demand Scheduling….………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 155
9.9 Data storage and archiving………….…………………………………………………………………………………… 155
9.10 File Transfers……………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 156
9.11 Performance data…………..………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 156
9.10.1 Generator performance data………..……………………………………………………………………………… 156
9.12.3 Performance Indicators………………………………………………………………………………………………. 156
FINANCIAL INDICATORS FOR ALL DISTRIBUTORS…………………………………………………… 160

SECTION 10……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 161

10. PROJECT APRAISAL FRAMEWORK CODE……………………………………………………………….. 161
10.1 Introduction………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 161
10.1.1 Project Documentation Guidelines……………………………………………………………………………….. 161
10.1.3 Project Justification…..…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 162
10.1.3 Results of cost/benefit analysis………………..……………………………………………………………….. 163
10.1.4 Conclusions and recommendations……….……………………………………………………………………… 163
10.2 APPRAISAL GUIDELINES……………..……………………………………………………………………………. 163
10.2.1 Economic Analysis……………..…………………………………………………………………………………………. 163
[Link] Purpose…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….163
[Link] Underlying Principles…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 164
[Link] Cost Parameters………………………………….………………………………………………………………………. 164
10.2.2 Operation and Maintenance Costs…………………………………………………………………………….. 165
[Link] Electricity Production Cost………………………………………………………………………………………. 165
[Link] Opportunity Costs……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 165
[Link] Transfer Payments……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 166
[Link] Shadow Pricing……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 166
[Link] Foreign exchange (Shadow Exchange Rate) ………………………………………………………… 166
[Link] Economic Life………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 166
[Link] Benefits……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….......... 168
10.2.3 Cost-Benefit Analysis…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 168
[Link] Objective………………………………………………………………………………………………………… ………….. 168
[Link] Methodology………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 168
[Link] Discount Factors………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 169
[Link] Discount Rate……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 169
[Link] The Net Present Value (NPV) ………………………………………………………………………………… 169
[Link] The Internal Rate of Return (IRR) ………………………………………………………………………. 170

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 10 -

[Link] The Payback Period……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 171

[Link] Benefit-Cost Ratio……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 172
[Link] Financial Analysis………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 172
[Link] Capital Costs……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 173
10.2.4 Total Capital/Investment Costs………………………………………………………………………………… 173
[Link] Operating & Maintenance (O & M) Costs……………………………………………………………… 173
[Link] Electricity Production Costs……………………………………………………………………………………. 174
[Link] Total Costs…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 174
[Link] Benefits………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 174
[Link] Net Benefits or Net Cash Flows……………………………………………………………………………… 174
[Link] Discount Factors………………………………..……………………………………………………………………….. 174
[Link] Net Present Values…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 175
[Link] Cumulative Net Present Values……………………………………………………………………………….. 175
[Link] Discounted Benefits And Costs……………………………………………………………………………… 175
10.2.5 Internal Rate Of Return (IRR) ………………………………………………………………………………… 175
[Link] Benefit-Cost Ratio…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 176
[Link] Assumptions………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 176
[Link] Expected Results……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 176
[Link] Environmental Impact Assessment………………………………………………………………………… 176
[Link] Major Environmental Issues…………………………………………………………………………………….. 176
[Link] Physical/Biological Effects …..…………………………………………………………………………………. 177
[Link] Social Effects……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 177
[Link] Economic Effects……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 178
[Link] Typical Impacts………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 178
[Link] Physical Impacts……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 178
[Link] Social Impacts……………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 179
[Link] Economic Impacts……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 180

SECTION 11…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 182

11 WAYLEAVES AND SERVITUDES…………………………………………………………………………… 182
11.1 Obtaining Wayleaves and Servitudes……………………………………………………………………….. 182
11.2 Clearance and Maintenance of Wayleaves and Servitudes…………………………………… 182
11.2.1 Purpose…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 182
11.2.2 General Information Notice to Customers…………………………………………………………….. 182
11.2.3 Hazard Warning Notice………………………………………………………………………………………………. 183
11.2.4 Cut or Trim Notice……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 183
11.2.5 Debris……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 183
11.2.6 Underground Cable Safety…………………………………………………………………………………………. 183
11.2.7 Obligation to Remove Danger to Persons or Property from
Trees Damaging Lines…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 183
11.2.8 Liability for Costs………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 184

10
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 11 -

SECTION 12
12 SAFETY………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 185
12.1 Public Safety………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 185
12.2 Employees and Equipment…………………………………………………………………………………………… 185
12.3 NON-COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE…………………………………………………………………. 185
12.3.1 Distributor’s obligation to remedy…………………………………………………………………………… 185
12.4 Notification to customers……………………………………………………………………………… ………… 185
12.5 Customer’s obligation to remedy………………………………………………………………………………. 186
12.6 COMPLIANCE PLANS…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 186
12.6.1 Statement of Compliance…………………………………………………………………………………………… 186
12.6.2 Submission of Compliance Plans………………………………………………………………………………… 187
12.7 Compliance with the Zimbabwe Grid Code………………………………………………………………. 187

DEFINITIONS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 188

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 12 -

ZIMBABWE DISTRIBUTION CODE

INTRODUCTION

The Electricity reform program in Zimbabwe has resulted in two Acts passed by
Parliament. These are the Rural Electrification Fund Act (Chapter: 13.20 5/2002) and
the Electricity Act (Chapter 13: 19 4/2002). The Rural Electrification Fund Act
resulted in the formation of the Rural Electrification Agency, whose mandate is to
spearhead the provision of electricity in rural areas. The Electricity Act passed by the
Parliament of Zimbabwe in January 2003 and gazetted on the 23rd May 2003 has led to
the unbundling of ZESA to form ZESA Holdings Ltd., Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC),
Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission Company (ZETCO), Zimbabwe Electricity
Distribution Company (ZEDC), ZESA Enterprises and Powertel as well as the
establishment of Zimbabwe Electricity Regulatory Commission (ZERC). ZPC, ZEDC and
ZETCO are regulated by ZERC.

ZEDC is authorised to construct, operate and maintain a distribution system in various

areas of Zimbabwe and to offer the following services:
To be the primary distributor of power in Zimbabwe
To be the purchaser of power from the bulk supplier for
distribution in Zimbabwe
The connection of customers for the purpose of receiving a supply
of electricity
The installation, maintenance and reading of meters, billing and
collection
Such other distribution services as may be prescribed by the
Commission

PURPOSE OF DISTRIBUTION CODE

The Distribution Code is a document approved by the Zimbabwe Electricity Regulatory

Commission formulated in order to ensure efficient coordinated operation and
maintenance of the electricity Distribution System under the restructured
environment. It shall be a document agreed upon and to be complied with by all users of
the Distribution System. The Distribution Code is a dynamic document that is revised
periodically as per the procedures laid down, taking into account the reasonable
interests and views as expressed by the stake–holding entities in the light of the
experience gained in the actual implementation of the Code.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 13 -

OBJECTIVES OF THE DISTRIBUTION CODE

The Distribution Code establishes the basic rules, procedures, requirements and
standards that govern the operation, maintenance, and development of the
electricity Distribution Systems in Zimbabwe to ensure the safe, reliable, and
efficient operation of the electricity Distribution System in Zimbabwe.

The objective of the Distribution code is to promote sound planning, operational

and connection standards in a bid to provide for reliable, secure, economic and
coordinated operation of the Distribution System. This will be achieved through
the following: -

a) Specification of minimum operational standards

b) Specification of minimum technical requirements
c) Specification of minimum safety and customer handling standards
d) Specification of information requirements and procedures
e) Specification of minimum requirements for embedded generators
f) Streamlining responsibilities and obligations for all the users of the
Distribution System
g) Establishment of requirements for the development of the
Distribution System

CONTENT OF THE DISTRIBUTION CODE

The Distribution Code consists of the following Sections:

Definitions
Management of the Code
Performance Standards and Customer Services Code
Distribution Connection Code
Planning Code
Operations and Maintenance Code
Metering Code
Protection Code
Project Appraisal Code
Financial capability standards for Distribution
Information Exchange Code
Project Appraisal Framework Code
Wayleaves and servitudes
Safety

13
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 14 -

ABBREVIATIONS

IPP Independent Power Producer

AC Alternating Current

ALD Automatic Load Dropping

MOEPD Ministry of Energy Power and Development

EBIT Earning Before Interest and Taxes

GW Gigawatt

GWh Gigawatt-hour

HV High Voltage

IEC International Electrotechnical Commission

IRR Implementing Rules and Regulations

KA Kiolampere

KVARh Kilovar-hour

kW Kilowatt

kWh Kilowat-hour

LV Low Voltage

MAIFI Momentary Average Interruption

MLD Manual Load Dropping

MV Medium Voltage

MVA Megavolt-ampere

MVAR Megavar

14
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 15 -

MW Megawatt

MWh Megawatt-hour

PDP Power Development Program

P/E Price-Earnings Ratio

ROA Return on Assets

ROI Return on Investments

SAIDI System Average Interruption Duration Index

SAIFI System Average Interruption Frequency Index

SPUG Small Power Utility Group

TDD Total Demand Distortion

THD Total Harmonic Distortion

UFR Underfrequency Relay

V Volts

VAR Volt Ampere Reactive

W Watt

Wh Watt-hour

X/R Reactance/Resistance

ZETCO Zimbabwe Electricity transmission Company

ZEDC Zimbabwe Electricity Distribution Company

ZPC Zimbabwe Power Company

ZERC Zimbabwe Electricity Regulatory Commission

15
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 16 -

SECTION 1

1 MANAGEMENT OF THE CODE

1.1 Introduction
Under the terms of the Electricity Act Chapter (13:19 4/ 2002), the Distributor
is required to implement and ensure compliance to the Distribution Code and to
periodically review the same and its implementation. Such review shall be subject
to approval by ZERC.

1.2 Objective

The objective of this Section is to define the method of managing the

Distribution Code, submitting and pursuing of any proposed changes to the
Distribution Code and the responsibility of all Users to effect that change.

1.3 Responsibilities

ZEDC will be responsible for managing and servicing the Distribution

Code. In this regard, ZEDC shall establish the Distribution Code Review
Panel and provide secretarial services. Amendments to the Distribution
code shall be approved by ZERC.

1.4 Distribution Code Review Panel

The Panel shall be chaired by ZEDC and shall consist of the following members:

• Chairman to be nominated by ZEDC

• Secretary to be nominated by ZEDC
• One Member from ZPC
• One Member from ZETCO
• One member from ZERC
• One Member appointed by IPPs and Embedded Generators
• Two members from bulk supply customers
• One member from Rural Electrification Agency (REA)
• One member from Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ)

Members of the Distribution Code Review Panel shall possess relevant technical
skills and shall be subject to approval by ZERC. ZERC shall be immediately
informed of changes in the composition of the Distribution Code Review Panel
and shall approve such changes.

For continuity purposes, membership of individuals from above entities shall be

permanent and any changes of member representation by entities shall be
communicated in writing to ZERC within thirty (30) days.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 17 -

ZEDC shall provide the secretarial functions of the Distribution Code

Review Panel. In this regard, ZEDC shall designate an appropriate official
to coordinate the activities of the Distribution Code Review Panel to
ensure compliance to the Distribution Code, its revisions and amendments.
Zimbabwe Electricity Regulation Commission (ZERC) shall approve the
Distribution Code and all the amendments and ensure its compliance.

1.5 Standing Committees to deal with specific issues

The Distribution Code Review Panel can at its discretion form standing
committees to deliberate and recommend on specific issues governing the
Code.

The Distribution Code Review Panel, at their discretion, shall invite at

their meetings, Chairmen of each of the Standing Committees concerned
with particular items on their Agendas. The Chairman of a Standing
Committee may delegate a representative from the Standing Committee
to take part in the discussions.

The Distribution Code Review Panel, at their discretion, may invite

representatives from Consultants and/or any other Organization such as
Government Departments, Local Authorities, Railways,
Telecommunications, Standard Association of Zimbabwe, Financing
Institutions or academic / technical institutions, to attend the Panel
Meeting depending on the Agenda. Such invited members can express or
offer advice on the matter under consideration but act as observers in
the final determination.

1.6 Distribution Code Review Panel Rules

The rules to be followed by the Panel in conducting its business shall be

formulated by the Panel itself and shall be approved by ZERC. The Panel
will meet at least once in three months.

No revision or modification of the Distribution Code shall be made without

knowledge of the Distribution Code Review Panel and ZERC approval.

17
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 18 -

In an unusual situation where normal day-to-day operation is not possible

without revision of some clauses of the Distribution Code, a provisional
revision may be implemented before approval of ZERC is received, but
only after discussion by the Distribution Code Review Panel through a
Meeting convened on emergency basis. ZERC should promptly be intimated
about the provisional revision in writing and approve the revisions within
fourteen (14) days from the date of notification by the Distribution Code
Review Panel.

ZERC may issue directions requiring ZEDC to revise the Distribution Code
in such a manner as may be specified in those directions, and ZEDC shall
promptly comply with any such directions through the Distribution Code
Review Panel.

1.7 Functions of the Distribution Code Review Panel

The functions of the Panel are as follows:

1. To keep the Distribution Code and its workings under continuous

scrutiny and review.
2. To analyse any major Distribution disturbances soon after the
occurrence as recommended by ZEDC or any other user, and evolve any
consequent revision to the Distribution Code.
3. To consider all requests for amendment to the Distribution Code
which are proposed by the Users.
4. To publish recommendations for changes to the Distribution Code
together with the reasons for the changes and any objections, if
applicable.
5. To issue guidance on the interpretations and implementation of the
Distribution Code
6. To examine problems raised by Users.

ZEDC may hold sub-meetings with a User to discuss individual

requirements and with a group of Users to prepare proposals for the
Distribution Code Review Panel meeting.

1.8 Distribution Code Review and Revisions Procedures

The Secretary shall present all proposed revisions of the Distribution Code to
the Review Panel for its consideration.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 19 -

ZEDC shall send the following reports to the ZERC at the conclusion of each
review meeting of the Panel.

1. A report on the outcome of such review.

2. Any proposed revisions to the Distribution Code as ZEDC reasonably
thinks necessary for achievement of the objectives referred to in the
relevant paragraph of the Distribution License.
3. All written representations or objections from Users raised during the
review.

All revisions to the Distribution Code shall require approval of ZERC.

ZEDC shall publish revisions to the Distribution Code, once approved by
the ZERC.

Every change from the previous Version shall be clearly marked in the margin. In
addition, a revision sheet shall be placed at the front of the Revised Version
noting the number of every changed sub-section, together with a brief
statement of change.

1.9 Disputes
The Distribution Code Review Panel shall handle disputes regarding
interpretation of the Distribution Code. If one or both parties are not satisfied
with the ruling of the Panel the matter shall be referred to ZERC whose decision
is final.
1.9.1 Disputes pertaining to issues not covered by the Distribution Code
Any technical relevant issues not covered by the Distribution Code shall be
referred to the Distribution Code Review Panel for further consideration for
inclusion in the Distribution Code. The Distribution Code Review Panel’s ruling on
such issues shall be binding. If any party is not satisfied by the ruling of the
Distribution Code Review Panel, the matter shall be referred to ZERC. The
decision of ZERC shall be final and binding.

1.9.2 Continuity of Functioning of Distribution System Users

After a dispute arises between entities, the matter should immediately be

referred to the Distribution Code Review Panel who should make provisional
working arrangements that shall be implemented till a valid ruling is issued
according to Section 1.9.1 above. The objective of this procedure is to
ensure that no dispute shall stall the daily operations of any Distribution
System User .

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 20 -

1.9.3 Unforeseen Circumstances

In situations not addressed by any clause of the Distribution Code, ZEDC shall
convene an emergency meeting with all affected Distribution System Users to
formulate a solution and the actions to be taken in the circumstance by the
Distribution System Users. If no agreement can be reached, ZEDC shall
provisionally determine the action to be taken after giving consideration to the
views expressed by other Users.

ZEDC shall, as soon as possible, but not later than fourteen days, refer the
matter to the Distribution Code Review Panel whose decision shall prevail over
the provisional determination of ZEDC. If a Distribution System User appeals to
ZERC over the decision of the Panel, the decision of ZERC shall supersede the
decision of the Panel.

The normal operations of any User should never be disrupted by any situation or
dispute. The majority decision of the meeting of Distribution System Users or
the considered determination of ZEDC shall be implemented unless and until the
Distribution Code Review Panel issues a different ruling; and the ruling of the
Panel shall be in force unless and until a different decision is issued by ZERC (if
the issue is referred to ZERC). The decision of ZERC is ultimate and shall be
implemented by all Distribution System Users

20
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 21 -

SECTION 2

2. DISTRIBUTION CONNECTION CODE

2.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

2.1.1 Purpose

To specify the technical, design, and operational criteria at the User’s

Connection Point;
To ensure that the basic rules for connection to the Distribution System are
fair and non-discriminatory for all Users; and
To list and collate the data required by the Distributor from the User and to
list the data to be provided by the Distributor to the User.
Scope of Application

This Section applies to all Distribution System Users including:

Other Licensed distributors;

Embedded Generators;
ZETCO;
Large Customers; and
Any other User System connected to the Distribution System.

2.1.2 DISTRIBUTION TECHNICAL, DESIGN, AND OPERATIONAL

CRITERIA

Power Quality Standards

The Distributor shall ensure that at any Connection Point in the Distribution
System, the Power Quality standards specified in Section 3 of this Distribution
Code are complied with.

Users seeking connection to the Distribution System or modification of an

existing connection shall ensure that their Equipment can operate reliably and
safely within the limits specified in Section 3.2 during normal conditions, and can
withstand the limits specified in this Section.

2.1.3 Frequency Variations

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 22 -

[Link] THE Distributor shall design and operate its System to assist ZETCO in
maintaining the System Frequency within the limits specified in Section
3.2.2 of this Distribution Code.

[Link] In case the System frequency momentarily rises to 52.5 Hz or falls to

47.5Hz, all Embedded Generating Units shall remain in synchronism with
the Distribution System for at least five (5) seconds to allow the
System Operator to undertake measures to correct the situation.

[Link] THE Distributor shall take into account the maximum estimated
Frequency Variation during emergency conditions in the specification of
Distribution Equipment.

2.1.4 Voltage Variations

[Link] The Long Duration Voltage Variation at any Connection Point during
normal conditions shall be within the limits specified in Section 3.2.3 of
this Distribution Code.

[Link] ZEDC shall consider the maximum estimated Voltage Swell in the
selection of the voltage ratings of Distribution Equipment.

[Link] Any extension or connection to the Distribution System shall be

designed in such a way that it does not adversely affect the Voltage
Variation in the Distribution System.

2.1.5 Power Factor

[Link] The User shall maintain a Power Factor not less than 90 percent lagging
at the Connection Point in the Distribution System.

[Link] ZEDC shall correct feeder and substation feeder bus Reactive Power
demand to a level that will economically reduce the Technical Losses.

[Link] ZEDC shall establish penalties and incentives for Customer Power
Factor at the Connection Point based on the target level.

2.1.6 Harmonics

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 23 -

[Link] The Total Harmonic Distortion of the voltage and the Total Demand
Distortion of the current, at any Connection Point, shall not exceed the
limits prescribed in Section 3.2.4.

[Link] The User shall ensure that its System shall not cause the Harmonics in
the Distribution System to exceed the limits specified in Section 3.2.4.

2.1.7 Voltage Unbalance

[Link] The maximum Voltage Unbalance at any Connection Point in the

Distribution System shall not exceed the limits specified in Section
3.2.5 during normal operating conditions.

[Link] The Customer shall ensure that its System shall not cause the Voltage
Unbalance in the Distribution System to exceed the limits specified in
Section 3.2.5.

2.1.8 Flicker Severity

[Link] The Flicker Severity at any Connection Point in the Distribution System
shall not exceed the limits specified in Section 3.2.6.

[Link] The User shall ensure that its System shall not cause the Flicker
Severity in the Distribution System to exceed the limits specified in
Section 3.2.6.

2.1.9 Transient Voltage Variations

[Link] The Distribution System and the User System shall be designed and
operated to include devices that will mitigate the effects of transient
over voltages on the Distribution System and the User System.

[Link] ZEDC and the customer shall take into account the effect of electrical
transients when specifying the insulation of their electrical Equipment.

2.1.10 Protection Arrangements

23
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 24 -

[Link] The Distribution System shall be designed and operated with

sufficient protection to ensure safety and to limit the frequency and
duration of Interruptions to End-Users.

[Link] The requirements for the protection system at the Connection Point
shall be agreed upon by the Distributor and the User during the
application for connection or modification of an existing connection and
shall be reviewed from time to time by ZEDC, with the concurrence of
the User.

[Link] The User System shall be designed and operated with protective
devices in accordance with the requirements of the Distributor.

[Link] The Fault Clearance Time shall be within the limits established by
ZEDC in accordance with the protection policy adopted for the
Distribution System.

[Link] The Distributor shall provide the details of any auto-reclosing or

sequential switching features in the Distribution System so that the
Customer may take this into account in the design of its protection
System.

[Link] The User shall consider in the design of its protection System the
possible disconnection of only one phase or two phases during fault
conditions.

2.1.11 Equipment Short Circuit Rating

[Link] ZEDC shall inform the Customer of the designed and the existing Fault
Levels of the Distribution System at the Connection Point.

[Link] The Customer shall consider the designed and the existing Fault Levels
at the Connection Point in the design and operation of the Customer
System.

2.1.12 Grounding Requirements

[Link] The Distributor shall inform the Customer of the grounding method
used in the Distribution System. The specification of Distribution
Equipment shall consider the maximum Voltage Surge that will be
imposed on the Equipment during faults involving ground.

24
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 25 -

[Link] The Distribution System shall be effectively grounded with an Earth

Fault Factor of less than 1.4 for all voltage levels connected to the
Distribution System.

[Link] Where there are multiple sources of power, the Customer shall ensure
that the effects of circulating currents with respect to the grounded
neutral are either prevented or mitigated.

2.1.13 Monitoring and Control Equipment Requirements

[Link] ZEDC and the Customer shall agree on the mode of monitoring and
control.

[Link] ZEDC shall where applicable provide, install, and maintain the
telemetry outstation and all associated Equipment needed to monitor
the Customer System.

[Link] If the Customer agrees that ZEDC shall control the switchgear in the
Customer’s System, ZEDC shall install the necessary control
outstation, including the control interface for the switchgear.

2.1.14 Equipment Standards

All Equipment at the Connection Point shall comply with the

requirements of the IEC Standards or their equivalent Zimbabwe
national standards.

2.1.15 Maintenance Standards

[Link] All Equipment at the Connection Point shall be maintained in accordance
with the provisions of Section [Link] of this Distribution Code and in a
manner that shall not pose a threat to the safety of any personnel or
cause damage to the Equipment of the Distributor or the User.
[Link] The Distributor shall maintain a log containing the test results and
maintenance records relating to its Equipment at the Connection Point
and shall make this log available when requested by the User.
[Link] The User shall maintain a log containing the test results and
maintenance records relating to its Equipment at the Connection Point
and shall make this log available when requested by the Distributor.

25
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 26 -

2.2 PROCEDURES FOR DISTRIBUTION CONNECTION OR

MODIFICATION

2.2.1 Connection Agreement

[Link] Any Customer seeking a new connection to the Distribution System

shall secure the required Connection Agreement with ZEDC prior to
the actual connection to the Distribution System.

[Link] ZEDC shall develop application procedures for connection to the

distribution system to be used by customers for application to be
connected to the Distribution System. The application for connection
procedures shall be approved by ZERC.

[Link] A customer requiring new connection/alteration to existing supply shall

provide all technical details requested by the distributor to enable the
distributor to make a fair assessment of the customer’s requirements.

[Link] Before the customer is physically connected, the distributor shall

satisfy itself that the installation is safe to be connected. These
safety requirements shall be approved and monitored by ZERC.

[Link] The distributor shall provide a certificate of electrical safety for

every installation established.

[Link] A connection agreement, detailing among others the contracted supply

and applicable tariff, shall be drafted by the distributor and signed by
both distributor and customer in respect of each and every
connection/supply point.

[Link] A new connection to the distribution network shall be by means of a

single or three phase overhead line with bare or insulated conductors,
an underground cable or a combination of both in accordance with
Electricity (Supply) Regulations.

[Link] All equipment on the customer’s installation shall be suitable for use at
the operating frequency of 50 Hz and at the voltage and stipulated
short-circuit rating and shall normally be controlled within the
approved limits.

[Link] The distributor may require certification and evidence to conclusively

prove that the equipment installed or to be installed has been

26
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 27 -

designed, tested and installed in a satisfactory manner and in

conformance with the relevant standards.

2.2.2 Amended Connection Agreement

[Link] Any customer seeking to modify an existing connection to the
Distribution System shall secure the required Amended Connection
Agreement with the Distributor prior to the actual modification.

[Link] Any alteration (be it temporary or permanent) to an existing

installation shall not be made without approval from the Distributor.

[Link] The Amended Connection Agreement shall include provisions for the
submission of additional information required by ZEDC

2.2.3 Distribution Impact Studies

[Link] The distributor shall take all necessary measures to ensure that any
proposed connection or modification of an existing connection to the
Distribution System shall not result in the degradation of the
Distribution System.

[Link] The distributor shall conduct Distribution Impact Studies to evaluate

the impact of the proposed connection or modification to an existing
connection on the Distribution System. The evaluation shall include the
following:

Impact of short circuit infeed to the Distribution Equipment;

Coordination of protection System; and
Impact of User Development on Power Quality
Impact of User Development on the Environment

[Link] The distributor may disapprove an application for connection or a

modification of an existing connection to the Distribution System if it
is determined through the Distribution Impact Studies that the
proposed connection or modification will result in the derogation of the
Distribution System.

2.2.4 Conditions for Disconnection of Supply

An installation may be disconnected for the following reasons:

a) On customer’s written request

b) In cases of emergency

27
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 28 -

c) In the event of violation of electricity safety regulations

d) In the event of violation of commercial agreements such as
follows:

- The supply of electricity to a customer's electrical

installation is used other than at the customer’s
premises;
- A customer takes at the customer’s supply address
electricity supplied to another supply address;
- A customer tampers with, or permits tampering
with, the meter or associated equipment; or
- A customer allows electricity supplied to the
customer’s supply address to bypass the meter.
- Failure by customer to comply to any provision of
this Distribution Code

2.2.5 Conditions for Reconnection of Supply after disconnection

An installation/customer may be reconnected for the following reasons:

- On customer’s written request
- Compliance with relevant electricity regulations
where a disconnection was effected in terms of
section 2.3.4
- Compliance with relevant commercial terms and
agreements.

2.2.6 Application for Connection or Modification

[Link] Any Customer applying for connection or a modification of an existing

connection to the Distribution System shall submit to the Distributor
the completed application form for connection or modification of an
existing connection to the Distribution System. The application form
shall include the following information:

(a) A description of the proposed connection or modification to an

existing connection, which shall comprise the Customer Development
at the Connection Point;
(b) The relevant Standard Planning Data as requested by the
Distributor; and
(c) The Completion Date of the proposed Customer Development.

28
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 29 -

2.2.7 Processing of Application

[Link] The Distributor shall establish the procedure for the processing of
applications for connection or modification of an existing connection to
the Distribution System.

[Link] The distributor must use best endeavors to connect the customer on the
date agreed with the customer. Where no date is agreed, the
distributor shall use best endeavors to connect the supply address
within 20 business days after the request.

[Link] The Distributor shall evaluate the impact of the proposed User
Development on the Distribution System.

[Link] After evaluating the application submitted by the User, The Distributor
shall inform the Customer whether the proposed Customer Development
is acceptable or not.

[Link] If the application of the Customer is acceptable, The Distributor and

the Customer shall sign a Connection Agreement or an Amended
Connection Agreement, as the case may be.

[Link] If the application of the Customer is not acceptable, The Distributor

shall notify the Customer why its application is not acceptable. The
Distributor shall include in its notification a proposal on how the
Customer’s application will be acceptable to the Distributor.

[Link] The Customer shall accept the proposal of The Distributor within 30
days, or a longer period specified in The Distributor’s proposal, after
which the proposal automatically lapses.

[Link] The acceptance by the Customer of The Distributor’s proposal shall lead
to the signing of a Connection Agreement or an Amended Connection
Agreement.

[Link] If the Distributor and the Customer cannot reach agreement on the
proposed connection or modification to an existing connection, the
Distributor or the User may bring the matter before the ZERC for
resolution.

2.2.8 Submittals Prior to the Commissioning Date

29
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 30 -

[Link] The following shall be submitted by the Customer prior to the

commissioning date, pursuant to the terms and conditions and
schedules specified in the Connection Agreement:
a) Specifications of major Equipment not included in the Standard
Planning Data and Detailed Planning Data;
b) Details of the protection arrangements and settings for
Embedded Generating Units and for other Customer;
c) Information to enable The Distributor to prepare the Fixed
Asset Boundary
d) Electrical Diagrams of the Customer’s Equipment at the
Connection Point;
e) Information that will enable the Distributor to prepare the
Connection Point Drawings, referred to in Article 2.8;
f) A list of the names and telephone numbers of authorized
representatives, including the confirmation that they are fully
authorized to make binding decisions on behalf of the Customer

2.2.9 Commissioning of Equipment and Physical Connection to the

Distribution System

[Link] Upon completion of the User Development, including work at the

Connection Point, the Equipment at the Connection Point and the
User Development shall be subjected to the Test and
Commissioning procedure as set by the Distributor

[Link] The Customer shall then submit to the Distributor a statement of

readiness to connect.

[Link] Upon acceptance of the User ‘s statement of readiness to connect,

the Distributor shall, within 15 days, issue a certificate of approval
to connect.

[Link] The physical connection to the Distribution System shall be made

only after the Distributor has issued the certificate of approval to
connect to the User.

2.3 REQUIREMENTS FOR EMBEDDED GENERATORS

30
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 31 -

This section of the Code is applicable to all existing or prospective

Generators having Generating Plant operating or capable of operating in
parallel with the distribution system.

2.3.1 The Embedded Generator’s Equipment shall be connected to the

Distribution System at the voltage level agreed to by the
Distributor and the Generator based on the Distribution Impact
Studies.
2.3.2 The embedded generating facility shall be equipped with a high
voltage device capable of isolating the interconnection transformer
from the Distribution System in the event of a fault within the
transformer or the Generator side. The controlling circuit breaker
shall be capable of interrupting the maximum short circuit current
at the Point of Connection as specified by the Distributor. In
addition, isolators shall be provided to adequately isolate the
circuit breaker for maintenance purposes at the Point of
Connection.

2.4 Interconnection Transformer Requirements

2.4.1 Interconnection Transformer Requirements For Non-Synchronous

Generators

It is desired that there be no zero sequence current contribution

from induction type embedded generators. To achieve this
objective, the embedded generator transformer inter-connection
shall be:

(a) Delta on the generator side with a grounded Wye on the

distribution side, or
(b) Grounded Wye on the distribution system side with a
grounded or ungrounded Wye on the low voltage side.
The grounded Wye connection on the low voltage side is
only acceptable if the generator has a Delta or
ungrounded Wye winding connection.

2.4.2 Interconnection Transformer Requirements For Synchronous

Generators and Self-Commutating Inverters

The Zimbabwe distribution system is designed as an effectively

grounded system. All embedded generating facilities that utilise

31
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 32 -

synchronous generators shall have a step-up transformer-winding

configuration that provides a ground current source, which qualifies as
effectively grounded. The interconnecting transformer must have:

a) A solidly grounded Wye connected high voltage winding with a Delta

connected low voltage winding, or

b) A delta connected high voltage winding with a separate grounding

transformer connected to the high voltage terminals of the
interconnecting transformer. In this case, the grounding
transformer shall be connected directly to the interconnecting
transformer terminals without an isolating device. The grounding
transformer shall be in the same zone of protection as the
interconnecting transformer.

2.4.3 Transformer Rating

[Link] The transformer shall be sized to deliver rated kW and kVAr. Rated
kVAr shall be based upon 0.85 power factor full load operation for
induction generators and 0.90 power factor full load operation for
synchronous generators (Generator’s Reactive Power Capacity Curve
shall be used as guide in this case).
[Link] The embedded generating facility owner must take into consideration
the presence of unbalanced loads on the distribution system and size
transformers with Wye and delta windings to accommodate the
continuous zero sequence currents that will flow in the transformer
as a result of this load unbalance.

2.4.4 Protection Systems for Embedded Generators

[Link] The Generator shall submit all the proposed settings on their
protection scheme to the Distributor for review of protection
coordination.

[Link] The Distributor and the Embedded Generator shall be solely

responsible for the protection System of the electrical Equipment
and facilities at their respective sides of the Connection Point.

[Link] For Generating Plant directly connected to the distribution system

the Embedded Generator shall meet the target clearance times for
fault current interchange with the distribution system in order to

32
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 33 -

reduce to a minimum the impact on the distribution system of faults

on circuits owned by Embedded Generators.

[Link] The distributor shall ensure that the distribution system protection
settings meet its own target clearance times. The target clearance
times are measured from fault current inception to arc extinction
and shall be specified by the distributor to meet the requirements of
the relevant part of the distribution system.

2.4.5 Over Current and Earth Fault Protection

[Link] Embedded generators shall be equipped with over-current and

earth fault protection to trip the generator off in the event of a
fault on distribution system or a fault within the generator.

[Link] Some embedded generators may require the application of more

sophisticated protection schemes such as distance type protection
in order to achieve coordination with the distribution system
protection systems.

[Link] Voltage restrained over current protection may facilitate better

coordination with distribution system’s protection systems.

2.4.6 Over and Under Frequency Protection

All embedded generators are required to have under and over-

frequency protection relays that will disconnect the Generator from
the Distribution System if the frequency is outside the limits 47.5 Hz
and 52.5 Hz.

2.4.7 Over And Under Voltage Protection

[Link] Embedded generators shall have under and over-voltage protection

relays which will disconnect the generator from the distribution
system in the event of abnormal voltages occurring on the
distribution system.

[Link] The under-voltage trip setting shall be adjustable over a range of

85% of nominal to 95% of nominal. The over-voltage trip setting
shall be adjustable over a range of 105% to 115% of nominal.

33
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 34 -

[Link] The under-voltage and over-voltage protection shall have adjustable

time delays. The time delay shall be independently adjustable for
the over and under voltage trip settings.

[Link] It may be advantageous to provide a separate instantaneous or

very high speed over voltage protection for the detection of self-
excitation or ferroresonance conditions.

2.4.8 No-volts Auto Reclose Protection

Most rural distribution systems apply auto-reclosing to the primary

distribution system. If the embedded generating facility cannot
withstand the acceleration that will occur following reclose, it is
required that the generating facility be equipped with a no-volts relay
that trips the facility off during the reclose dead time.

2.4.9 Reverse Power Protection

All embedded generators shall have protection designed to trip the

unit in the event of power flowing from the Distribution System into
the Generator under any condition excerpt when start-up supplies are
required or for auxiliary supplies when the Generator is not on line.

2.4.10 Safety

The equipment of Generators, including machines, devices, overhead

lines, underground cables, transformers, work standards, etc, shall
conform to ZESA Electrical Safety Rules, SAZ Standards and other
Statutory instruments such as Factories and Works Act, regulations
and rules that may from time to time be in existence in Zimbabwe. In
addition where such rules are not in place IEC standards (IEC 950)
shall be used in the interim pending development of national standards.

2.4.11 Fault Levels

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 35 -

[Link] An embedded generator must design and operate its embedded

generating unit so that it does not cause fault levels in the distribution
system to exceed the levels specified in Table 2.4.6.

Table 2.4.11: Distribution System Fault Levels

Voltage Level System Fault Level MVA Short Circuit Level kA

225/390 V 15 6
11Kv 500 20
33kV 1 500 31.5
88kV 7 500 40
132kV 10 000 45

[Link] The addition of embedded generator will generally increase the system
fault levels. Before embedded generating plant is added to the
distribution network, it shall be assessed whether existing distribution
equipment will be able to sustain the increased fault levels.

[Link] If after system modelling it is established that the connection of a

generating plant is likely to increase fault levels above system design
ratings, consideration shall be given to the installation of reactors,
sectionalising networks, connection to systems at a higher voltage,
changing the generating unit specification or other means of limiting
fault current in-feed.

[Link] If fault limiting measures are not cost effective or feasible, system
plant with the potential to be subjected to fault levels in excess of its
rating shall be replaced or reference made to the relevant
manufacturer to determine whether or not the existing plant rating(s)
can be enhanced.

[Link] When assessing fault levels against system design ratings, suitable
safety margins shall be allowed to cater for tolerances that exist in
the network data and generating unit parameters used in fault level
calculation programs. On request from the embedded generating
facility operator, the Distributor shall provide the rationale for

determining the value of a specific margin being used in system

studies.

35
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 36 -

[Link] In assessing the prospective fault levels imposed on the power system
equipment, consideration must be given to all likely or reasonably
foreseeable conditions of actual application or use of the generating
plant. These will include studies under asset replacement and asset
maintenance conditions, so that all credible network-running
arrangements have been assessed. Where alternate feeds exist to the
circuit being considered, fault levels should be established for feeding
from both directions.

[Link] If the network fault levels are such that mitigating actions are
required for some infrequent running arrangements, then the
Generator may be required to constrain the operational regime of the
proposed generating plant during such running arrangements.

[Link] The level of load used in the assessment shall reflect the requirement
to meet the needs from agreed projects as well as additional loads as
declared in the Distributor’s Long Term Development Plans.

[Link] The embedded generating facility operator shall take cognisance of

the effect of Transmission and Subtransmission Long-term plans on
Distribution Network fault levels.

2.4.12 System Unbalance

[Link] In the presence of voltage unbalance, generator output may have to be

reduced to avoid overloading the generator. The embedded generating
facility operator must take into consideration that most locations on
Zimbabwe ’s distribution system have a degree of continuous voltage
unbalance (e.g. those supplying furnace loads), and has to specify the
rating of their generators appropriately to allow them to deliver
planned output.

[Link] The generator must also be able to withstand the effect of voltage
unbalances resulting from system disturbances such as unbalanced
power line faults.

[Link] The Embedded Generating Unit shall also be required to withstand

without tripping, the unbalance loading during clearance by the Backup
Protection of a close-up phase-to-phase fault on the Distribution
System.

36
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 37 -

2.4.13 Frequency Control

[Link] The frequency of supply to consumers shall be maintained within the

range 47.5 Hz to 52.5 Hz under both normal and emergency conditions.
The Generator must be capable of supplying its registered capacity
within this frequency range.

[Link] The Embedded Generating Unit shall be capable of continuously

supplying its Active Power output, as specified in the Generator’s
Declared Data, within the System Frequency range of 47.5Hz to 52.5
Hz. Any decrease of power output occurring in the Frequency range of
47.5Hz to 45.5 Hz shall not be more than the required proportionate
value of the System Frequency decay.
[Link] The Embedded Generating Unit shall be capable of supplying its Active
Power and Reactive Power outputs, as specified in the Generator’s
Declared Data, within the Voltage Variation specified in Section [Link]
during normal operating conditions.

[Link] The Embedded Generating Unit shall be capable of supplying its Active
Power output, as specified in the Generator’s Declared Data, within the
limits of 0.85 Power Factor lagging and 0.90 Power Factor leading at
the Generating Unit’s terminals, in accordance with its Reactive Power
Capability Curve.

2.4.14 Frequency Withstand Capability

[Link] If the System frequency momentarily rises to 52.5 Hz or falls to 47.5

Hz, Embedded Generating Units shall remain in synchronism with the
Grid for at least five (5) seconds. The Distributor, in Consultation with
the System Operator, may waive this requirement, if there are
sufficient technical reasons to justify the waiver.

[Link] The Generator shall be responsible for protecting its Embedded

Generating Units against damage for frequency excursions outside the
range of 47.5 Hz and 52.5 Hz. The Generator shall decide whether or
not to disconnect its Embedded Generating Unit from the Distribution
System.

2.4.15 Speed-Governing System

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 38 -

[Link] During Island Grid operation, an Embedded Generating Unit providing

Ancillary Services for Frequency Regulating Reserve shall provide
Frequency Control to the Island Grid.

[Link] The Embedded Generating Unit providing Ancillary Services for

Frequency Regulating Reserve shall be fitted with a fast-acting speed
governing system. The speed-governing System shall have an overall
speed droop characteristic of five percent (5%) or less. Unless waived
by the Distributor in consultation with the Grid Owner and the System
Operator, the speed-governing System shall be capable of accepting
raise and lower signals from the Control Centre of the System
Operator.

2.4.16 Power Islanding

Power islanding is the condition where the embedded generating

facility and a portion of the distribution system has become isolated
from the rest of the network, and continues to operate in an isolated
mode.

[Link] All embedded generating facilities that cannot meet the frequency
performance set in 2.4.8 shall be equipped with protection systems,
which detect a power islanding condition, and trip the generator. This
may require re-coordination with the distribution system protection or
the installation of special communication and protection schemes to
send direct trips to the embedded generator.

[Link] It is conceivable that a part of the distribution system, to which

Embedded Generators are connected, can, during emergency
conditions, become detached from the rest of the distribution system.
It shall be necessary for the distributor to decide, dependent on local
network conditions, if it is desirable for the Embedded Generators to
continue to generate onto the islanded distribution system.

[Link] If no facilities exist for the subsequent resynchronization with the

rest of the distribution system then the Embedded Generator shall
under the distributor’s instruction, ensure that the Generating Plant is
disconnected for re-synchronization.

[Link] Under emergency conditions there is an expectation that some

generation shall continue to operate outside the statutory frequency
limits. However, for Embedded Generators connected to the

38
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 39 -

distribution system at a voltage level less than 132kV it is likely that

this could mean connection within an automatic low frequency load
disconnection zone. Consequently, Embedded Generators should ensure
that all Protection on Generating Plant should have settings to co-
ordinate with those on the automatic low frequency load disconnection
equipment in conformance with the requirements of the Zimbabwe Grid
Code.

2.4.17 Voltage Variations

The following voltage limits shall be adhered to, under both normal and
contingency operating conditions.

Table 2.4.17: Voltage Variations

Nominal 1
Normal Conditions Emergency Conditions
Voltage
(kV)
Maximum Minimum Maximum Minimum
(kV) (kV) (kV) (kV)

132 138.6 125.1 145.0 118.8

88 92.4 83.6 96.8 79.2

66 69.3 59.4 72.5 56.1

33 34.7 31.4 36.3 29.7

11 11.6 10.5 12.1 9.9

2.4.18 Voltage and Power Factor Control Requirements

1
Emergency conditions are those not exceeding 30 minutes

39
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 40 -

[Link] An Embedded Generating Facility using an induction generator shall be

equipped with sufficient power factor correction capacitors to correct
the full load power factor within the range of 0.85 lagging and 0.98
leading at the Generating Unit’s terminals.

[Link] The power factor correction capacitors shall normally be provided in

steps to follow the output of the generator. Sufficient steps shall be
provided to maintain the power factor of the generator within the
stipulated limits over the expected power output range.

[Link] The capacitors switched in at start up shall be sized to meet the

voltage deviation requirements set out in Section 2.4.10.

[Link] The power factor controller shall have a voltage override that causes
it to switch out capacitors if the voltage at the point of delivery
exceeds an upper limit to be specified by the Distribution System
Operator. Currently the normal upper limit is 1.10 per unit; however,
the power factor control equipment shall have provision to adjust this
upper limit between 1.00 pu and 1.15 pu.

[Link] All generating units shall have a fast response automatic excitation
control system to control the generation set voltage without instability
over the entire operating range of the generation set. This shall be
dependent on the size and type of generating plant and the adjacent
part of the Distribution System to which it is connected.

2.4.19 Special Requirements for Synchronous Generators

[Link] Synchronizing Facilities

[Link].1 The embedded generating facility is required to have facilities to
facilitate synchronization of its units to the Distribution System.
[Link].2 These facilities will typically consist of a synchronizing relay and a
sync-check relay. The settings on these relays shall be submitted
to the Distribution System Operator for review to insure that they
will not adversely affect the operation of the Distribution System.
[Link].3 The embedded generating facility is responsible for synchronizing
its generator to the Distribution System following instructions as
set out in the Connection Agreement.

[Link] Voltage Regulation Requirements

40
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 41 -

[Link].1 All embedded generators shall be capable of operating continuously

while maintaining a voltage between 0.90 pu and 1.10 pu of the rated
generator voltage at the interconnector bus.
[Link].2 The rated power output of a generating unit shall not be affected
by voltage changes within the limits declared by the Distributor.
Synchronous machines shall be capable of delivering rated output
power at a power factor of +0.90 (lagging) or -0.95 (leading).

[Link].3 Synchronous machines shall be equipped with a voltage regulator

and exciter with the capability to control the terminal voltage of
the generator continuously between 0.8 pu and the upper limit of
the rated voltage of the generator from no-load to full-load.

[Link].4 The Distributor shall determine the actual set point. The regulator
shall be capable of controlling the generator terminal voltage to
within 0.5% of the set point without hunting.

[Link].5 In order to coordinate with its existing voltage control devices, the
Distributor may require that synchronous generators operate in a
power factor control mode.

[Link].6 The voltage / power factor regulator shall be capable of controlling

the power factor of the generator between +0.95 and -0.95 from
no-load to full-load as set by the Distributor

[Link].7 The regulator shall be capable of controlling the power factor to

within 0.5% of the set point without hunting.

[Link].8 In power factor control mode, the voltage regulator shall have a
voltage override that causes it to reduce excitation if the voltage
at the Point Of Delivery exceeds an upper limit to be specified by
the Distribution System Operator. The normal upper limit is 1.10pu;
however, the voltage regulator shall have provision to adjust this
upper limit between 1.00pu and 1.15pu.

[Link].9 The voltage regulator shall have provision for a time delay between
sensing an excursion of the upper voltage and initiating control
action.

[Link].10 The power factor control equipment shall have provision to allow for
the adjustment of this time delay between 0 and 180 seconds. The
Distribution System Operator will specify the required time delay.

41
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 42 -

[Link].11 The excitation system shall not trip, and shall continue to operate
during faults on the distribution system, and shall recover and
return to normal operation immediately following the fault. Controls
should continue to operate down to generator terminal voltages
approaching 20% of rated voltage, and shall continue to operate
during the extremely unbalanced voltage conditions that could
occur during fault conditions on the Distribution System.

2.4.20 Self-Excitation

In a power islanding condition, self-excitation of the generator will

take place if the reactive load on the generator resulting from line
capacitance or capacitors on the Distribution System exceeds the
capability of the generator and its excitation / voltage regulator
system to control the voltage. The voltage rise following the onset of
self-excitation in a synchronous machine can be very rapid and may
only be limited by saturation effects. Self-excitation is exacerbated
by the over-frequency that may follow a partial loss of load. The over-
voltages resulting from self-excitation can be very high and may result
in apparatus damage.

[Link] The embedded generating facility shall demonstrate through the

execution of analytical studies, that there is no risk of self-excitation
of the generator. Otherwise the embedded generating facility shall
demonstrate to the Distribution System Operator’s satisfaction:

(a) That the embedded generating facility has protection systems

to detect a self-excitation condition;
(b) That the interrupting device provided by the embedded
generating facility is capable of switching the anticipated
leading power factor current at the anticipated elevated
voltages;
(c) That isolation of the embedded generator will occur quickly
enough to preclude damage to other customers or the
distribution system equipment from the abnormal voltages that
may occur.

[Link] If the embedded generating facility fails to meet the preceding

requirements it shall be responsible for the cost of installing special
protection schemes. This may include a direct trip signal from the
distribution system operator’s source substation to the embedded

42
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 43 -

generating facility or other generating facilities on the same feeder.

This allows the interconnecting breaker to switch off whenever there
is a trip on the feeder to which the embedded generator is connected.

[Link] The risk of self-excitation shall be assessed taking into consideration

the total amount of capacitance on the feeder to which the embedded
generating facility is connected. This includes discrete capacitors on
the feeder, and the distributed capacitance of the feeder itself.

[Link] The assessment must also take into consideration the presence of
existing generators on the same feeder along with the minimum load
likely to be connected to the feeder.

[Link] The distribution system operator will provide information on load,

feeder characteristics, and the location of capacitors on its system to
facilitate assessment of the risk of self-excitation. Such details are
site specific.

2.4.21 Metering Requirements

[Link] The metering shall be located on the secondary side of the

interconnecting transformer and compensated for losses to the point-
of-delivery.

[Link] Dual register, revenue approved metering capable of recording real and
reactive power and energy delivery to and from the embedded
generating facility separately shall be required.

[Link] The embedded generating facility owner shall provide any

communication and interface facilities that the Distribution System
Operator may require to the metering unit.

[Link] The Distribution System Operator shall provide the Generator with all
relevant information on metering requirements.

2.4.22 System Studies

[Link] System studies shall be carried out by the Distributor (the Generator
shall provide all relevant information as the Distributor may require in

43
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 44 -

order to carry out these system studies) using appropriate software to

determine the following:

• System fault levels after adding embedded generators;

• Effect of adding embedded generators on system losses;
• Dynamic stability after adding embedded generators;
• Transient stability after adding embedded generators;
• Steady state stability after adding embedded generators;
• Effect of loss of the generator on distribution system losses
and voltages;
• Network conditions (Voltages, Real and reactive line flows,
direction of power flow etc) before and after selected system
disturbances.

[Link] Simulations shall also be carried out using appropriate software to

investigate possibility of self-excitation for generating facilities after
applying certain contingencies.

2.4.23 Dispatch Of Embedded Generators

The System Operator (ZETCO) shall determine whether an embedded

generating facility should be independently dispatched or centrally
dispatched. This decision depends on among other things, the impact
of the proposed embedded generating facility on economic load
dispatch.

2.4.24 Black Start Capability

[Link] The Embedded Generator shall specify in its application for a

Connection Agreement or an Amended Connection Agreement if its
Embedded Generating Unit has a Black Start capability.

[Link] The Embedded Generating Unit providing Ancillary Services for Black
Start shall be capable of initiating a Black Start procedure in
accordance with Section 5.7.4.

2.4.25 Fast Start Capability

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 45 -

[Link] The Embedded Generator shall specify in its application for a

Connection Agreement or Amended Connection Agreement if its
Embedded Generating Unit has a Fast Start capability.

[Link] The Embedded Generating Unit providing Ancillary Services for Fast
Start shall automatically Start-Up in response to frequency-level
relays with settings in the range of 47.5 Hz to 52.5 Hz.

2.4.26 Negative Sequence Voltage

[Link] Any generating unit or generating plant connected to the distribution

system shall be required to withstand, without tripping, the Negative
Phase Sequence loading incurred during the clearance of a close-up
phase –to-phase fault by system back-up Protection which shall be
within the Plant short time rating on the distribution system.

[Link] The distributor shall advise Embedded Generators of the expected

Negative Phase Sequence loadings during the Connection Agreement
process.

[Link] Neutral Earthing winding configuration and method of earthing

connection shall be agreed with the distributor.

[Link] An embedded generator must ensure that an embedded generating

unit’s contribution to the negative sequence voltage at the point of
connection between the embedded generating unit and the distribution
system is less than 1%.

2.4.27 Generating Plant Commissioning Tests

[Link] Where Generating Plant requires connection to the distribution system

in advance of the commissioning date, for the purpose of testing, the
Embedded Generator shall comply with the requirements of the
Connection Agreement.

[Link] The Embedded Generator shall provide the distributor with a

commissioning program, approved by the distributor to allow
commissioning tests to be coordinated.

2.4.27 Harmonics

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 46 -

[Link] An embedded generator must ensure that an embedded generating

unit’s contribution to the harmonic distortion levels in the supply
voltage at the point of connection between the embedded generating
unit and the distribution system is within the limits specified in
Section 3.2.4.

2.4.28 Inductive interference

[Link] An embedded generator must ensure that its generating unit does not
cause inductive interference above the limits specified in Section 3.2.8
of this Distribution Code.

2.4.29 Emergency Response Plan

A distributor must develop and periodically test emergency response

plans in co-ordination with relevant organizations. Working instructions
and procedures shall be made available for ease of reference

2.5 PROVISION OF INFORMATION

For the Distributor to effectively model the distribution network, it is

necessary for the Embedded Generating Facility operator to provide the
following information on each Generator to the Distributor:

(a) The Generating Plant Data

(1) Terminal volts (kV)

(2) Machine rating (MVA)
(3) Machine rating (MW)
(4) Registered capacity sent out
(5) Minimum active power sent out (MW min.)
(6) Reactive power capability at registered capacity and minimum
generation (lagging and leading)
(7) Rated power factor lagging at machine terminals
(8) Type of generation set (synchronous, asynchronous etc)
(9) Type of prime mover (e.g. fossil, wind etc.)
(10) Anticipated operating regime of generation set (e.g. continuous,
intermittent, peaking)
(11) Fault level contribution

(12) Type of generator set

(13) Proposed interface arrangements

46
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 47 -

(14) Means of connection with earth

(15) Precautions should neutral become disconnected from earth
(16) Short circuit ratio
(17) Zero sequence resistance
(18) Zero sequence reactance
(19) Negative and positive sequence resistance
(20) Negative and positive sequence reactance
(21) Type of excitation system
(22) Inertia constant MW secs/MVA (whole machine)
(23) Direct axis reactance (Sub transient, transient and synchronous)
(24) Quadrature axis reactance (Sub transient, transient and
synchronous)
(25) Direct axis Sub-transient time constant
(26) Direct axis transient time constant
(27) Quadrature axis reactance Sub-transient time constant
(28) Maximum active power sent out (MW max.)
(29) Reactive power requirements (MVAr) if any
(30) Generator rotor saturation parameters and saturation
characteristics. It is also recommended that saturation curves
be provided.

(b) Model Data

(1) Automatic Voltage Regulator:- A block diagram (in s-transform

format) for the model of the AVR system including the data on
the gains, forward and feedback gains, time constants and
voltage control limits.
(2) Speed Governor & Prime Mover Data: A block diagram (in s-
transform format) for the model of the Generating Plant
governor detailing the governor flyball, if applicable, and system
control and turbine time constants together with the turbine
rating and maximum power.

(c) Interconnection Transformer Data

(1) Voltage Ratio of Transformer

(2) Transformer Rating (MVA)
(3) Transformer tap arrangement
(4) Vector group of transformer

(5) Per Unit Impedance

(6) Method of earthing of transformer

47
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 48 -

(d) Interface Arrangements

The following interconnection information shall also be provided:

(1) Sketches of system layout and the proposed interface

arrangements between the generating plant and the
Distribution System.

(2) The means of synchronisation between the Distribution

System and the Generator.

(3) Details of arrangements for connecting with earth that

part of the Generator’s system directly connected to the
Distribution System.

(4) The means of connection and disconnection that are to be

employed.

(5) Precautions to be taken to ensure the continuance of safe

conditions should any earthed neutral point of the
generator’s system operated at high voltage become
disconnected from earth.

(6) Operation diagrams showing the electrical circuitry of the

existing and proposed main features within the generating
facility and showing as appropriate busbar arrangements,
phasing arrangements, earthing arrangements, switching
facilities and operating voltages.

(7) Sketches and diagrams showing point of connection to the

Distribution System in terms of geographical location and
electrical location

2.5.1 REQUIREMENTS FOR DISTRIBUTION CUSTOMERS

48
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 49 -

[Link] Requirements Relating to the Connection Point

[Link].1 The Customer’s equipment shall be connected to the Distribution

System at voltage level agreed to by The Distributor and the
Customer based on the Distribution Impact Studies.

[Link].2 For a connection at Low Voltage, the Connection Point shall, in

general, be at the Customer’s Load side terminal of the metering
equipment.

[Link].3 For a connection at Medium Voltage and High Voltage, The

Distributor and the User shall agree upon the Connection Point
arrangements.

[Link].4 The Connection Point shall be controlled by a Circuit

Breaker that is capable of interrupting the maximum short circuit
current at the point of connection.

[Link].5 Disconnect switches shall also be provided and arranged to

isolate the circuit breaker for maintenance

2.5.2 Protection Arrangements

[Link] The protection of the Customer’s Equipment at the Connection Point

shall be designed, coordinated, and tested to achieve the desired level
of speed, sensitivity, and selectivity in fault clearing and to minimize
the impact of faults on the Distribution System.

[Link] The Distributor and the Customer shall be solely responsible for the
protection System of electrical Equipment and facilities at their
respective sides of the Connection Point.

[Link] The Distributor may require specific Customers to provide other

protection schemes, designed and developed to minimize the risk
and/or impact of disturbances on the Distribution System.

2.5.3 Transformer Connection and Grounding

49
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 50 -

The Distributor shall specify the connection and grounding

requirements for the transformer, in accordance with the provisions
of Section 2.2.11.

2.6 FIXED ASSET BOUNDARY DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS

2.6.1 Fixed Asset Boundary Document

[Link] The Fixed Asset Boundary Documents for any Connection Point shall
provide the information and specify the operational responsibilities of
the Distributor and the User for the following:

(a) MV/HV Equipment;

(b) LV Equipment; and
(c) Metering equipment.

[Link] For the Fixed Asset Boundary Document referred to in item (a) above,
the responsible management unit shall be shown, in addition to the
Distributor or the User. In the case of Fixed Asset Boundary
Documents referred to in items (b) and (c) above, with the exception
of protection equipment and inter-trip Equipment operation, it will be
sufficient to indicate the responsible User or the Distributor.

[Link] The Fixed Asset Boundary Document shall show precisely the
Connection Point and shall specify the following:

a) Equipment and their ownership;

b) Accountable Managers;
c) Safety Rules and procedures including Local Safety Instructions
and the Safety Coordinator(s) or any other persons responsible for
safety;
d) Operational procedures and the responsible party for operation and
control;
e) Maintenance requirements and the responsible party for
undertaking maintenance; and
f) Any agreement pertaining to emergency conditions.

[Link] The Fixed Asset Boundary Documents shall be available at all times for
the use of the operations personnel of the Distributor and the
Customer

2.6.2 Accountable Managers

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 51 -

[Link] Prior to the Completion Date specified in the Connection Agreement or

Amended Connection Agreement, the Customer shall submit to the
Distributor a list of Accountable Managers who are duly authorized to
sign the Fixed Asset Boundary Documents on behalf of the Customer.

[Link] Prior to the Completion Date specified in the Connection Agreement or

Amended Connection Agreement, the Distributor shall provide the
Customer the name of the Accountable Manager who shall sign the
Fixed Asset Boundary Documents on behalf of the Distributor.

[Link] Any change to the list of Accountable Managers shall be communicated

to the other party at least six (6) weeks before the change becomes
effective. If the change was not anticipated, it must be communicated
as soon as possible to the other party, with an explanation why the
change had to be made.

[Link] Unless specified otherwise in the Connection Agreement or the

Amended Connection Agreement, the construction, Test and
Commissioning, control, operation and maintenance of Equipment,
accountability, and responsibility shall follow ownership.

2.6.3 Preparation of Fixed Asset Boundary Document

[Link] The Distributor shall establish the procedure and forms required for
the preparation of the Fixed Asset Boundary Documents.

[Link] The Customer shall provide the information that will enable the
Distributor to prepare the Fixed Asset Boundary Document, in
accordance with the schedule specified in the Connection Agreement
or Amended Connection Agreement.

[Link] The Distributor shall prepare the Fixed Asset Boundary Documents
for the Connection Point at least two (2) weeks prior to the Completion
Date.

[Link] The Fixed Asset Boundary Document for the Equipment at the
Connection Point shall include the details of the lines or cables
emanating from the Distributor’s and the User’s sides of the
Connection Point.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 52 -

[Link] The date of issue and the issue number shall be included in every page
of the Fixed Asset Boundary Document.

2.6.4 Signing and Distribution of Fixed Asset Boundary Document

[Link] Prior to the signing of the Fixed Asset Boundary Document, the
Distributor shall send a copy of the completed Fixed Asset Boundary
Document to the Customer, for any revision or for confirmation of its
accuracy.

[Link] The Accountable Managers designated by the Distributor and the

Customer shall sign the Fixed Asset Boundary Document, after
confirming its accuracy.

[Link] Once signed but not less than two (2) weeks before the implementation
date, the Distributor shall provide two (2) copies of the Fixed Asset
Boundary Document to the User, with a notice indicating the date of
issue, the issue number and the implementation date of the Fixed
Asset Boundary Document.

2.6.5 Modifications of an Existing Fixed Asset Boundary Document

[Link] When a Customer has determined that a Fixed Asset Boundary

Document requires modification, it shall inform the Distributor at
least eight (8) weeks before implementing the modification. the
Distributor shall then prepare a revised Fixed Asset Boundary
Document at least six (6) weeks before the implementation date of the
modification.

[Link] When the Distributor has determined that a Fixed Asset Boundary
Document requires modification, it shall prepare a revised Fixed Asset
Boundary Document at least six (6) weeks prior to the implementation
date of the modification.

[Link] If the Distributor or a Customer has determined that the Fixed Asset
Boundary Document requires modification to reflect an emergency
condition, the Distributor or the Customer, as the case may be, shall
immediately notify the other party. the Distributor and the Customer
shall meet to discuss the required modification to the Fixed Asset
Boundary Document, and shall decide whether the change is temporary
or permanent in nature.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 53 -

[Link] Within seven (7) days after the conclusion of the meeting between the
Distributor and the User, the Distributor shall provide the Customer a
revised Fixed Asset Boundary Document.

[Link] The procedure specified in Section 2.6.4 for signing and distribution
shall be applied to the revised Fixed Asset Boundary Document. The
Distributor’s notice shall indicate the revision, the new issue number,
and the new date of issue.

2.6.6 ELECTRICAL DIAGRAM REQUIREMENTS

[Link] Responsibilities of ZEDC and Customers

[Link] ZEDC shall specify the procedure and format to be followed in the
preparation of the Electrical Diagrams for any Connection Point.
[Link] The Customer shall prepare and submit to ZEDC an Electrical Diagram
for all the Equipment on the Customer ’s side of the Connection Point,
in accordance with the schedule specified in the Connection Agreement
or Amended Connection Agreement.
[Link] If the Connection Point is at the Customer ’s Site, the Customer shall
prepare and distribute a composite Electrical Diagram for the entire
Connection Point. Otherwise, ZEDC shall prepare and distribute the
composite Electrical Diagram for the entire Connection Point.

2.6.7 Preparation of Electrical Diagrams

[Link] The Electrical Diagrams shall provide an accurate record of the layout
and circuit connections, ratings and identification of Equipment, and
related apparatus and devices at the Connection Point.

[Link] If possible, all the Equipment at the Connection Point shall be shown in
one Electrical Diagram. When more than one Electrical Diagram is
necessary, duplication of identical information shall be minimized. The
Electrical Diagrams shall represent, as closely as possible, the physical
arrangement of the Equipment and their electrical connections.

[Link] The Electrical Diagrams shall be prepared using the Site and
Equipment Identification prescribed in Article 4.12. The current
status of the Equipment shall be indicated in the diagram. For example,
a decommissioned switch bay shall be labelled “Spare Bay.”

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 54 -

[Link] The title block of the Electrical Diagram shall include the names of
authorized persons together with provisions for the details of
revisions, dates, and signatures.

2.6.8 Changes to Electrical Diagrams

[Link] If ZEDC or a User decides to add new Equipment or change an existing

Equipment Identification, ZEDC or the User, as the case may be, shall
provide the other party a revised Electrical Diagram, at least one (1)
month prior to the proposed addition or change.
[Link] If the modification involves the replacement of existing Equipment,
the revised Electrical Diagram shall be provided to the other party in
accordance with the schedule specified in the Amended Connection
Agreement.
[Link] The revised Electrical Diagram shall incorporate the new Equipment to
be added, the existing Equipment to be replaced or the change in
Equipment Identification.

2.6.9 Validity of Electrical Diagrams

[Link] The composite Electrical Diagram prepared by ZEDC or the

[Link] User, in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.7.1, shall be the
Electrical Diagram to be used for all operational and planning activities
associated with the Connection Point.
[Link] If a dispute involving the accuracy of the composite Electrical Diagram
arises, a meeting between ZEDC and the User shall be held as soon as
possible, to resolve the dispute.

2.6.10 CONNECTION POINT DRAWING REQUIREMENTS

[Link] Responsibilities of ZEDC and Customers

[Link].1 ZEDC shall specify the procedure and format to be followed in the
preparation of the Connection Point Drawing for any Connection
Point.
[Link].2 The Customer shall prepare and submit to ZEDC the Connection
Point Drawing for the Customer ‘s side of the Connection Point, in
accordance with the schedule specified in the Connection
Agreement or Amended Connection Agreement.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 55 -

[Link].3 ZEDC shall provide the User with the Connection Point Drawing for
its side of the Connection Point, in accordance with the schedule
specified in the Connection Agreement or Amended Connection
Agreement

[Link].4 If the Connection Point is at the Customer Site, the Customer shall
prepare and distribute a composite Connection Point Drawing for
the entire Connection Point. Otherwise, ZEDC shall prepare and
distribute the composite Connection Point Drawing for the entire
Connection Point.

2.6.11 Preparation of Connection Point Drawings

[Link] The Connection Point Drawing shall provide an accurate record of the
layout and circuit connections, ratings and identification of Equipment,
and related apparatus and devices at the Connection Point.

[Link] The Connection Point Drawing shall indicate the Equipment layout,
common protection, and control and auxiliaries. The Connection Point
Drawing shall represent, as closely as possible, the physical
arrangement of the Equipment and their electrical connections.

[Link] The Connection Point Drawing shall be prepared using the Site and
Equipment Identification prescribed in Article 4.12. The current
status of the Equipment shall be indicated in the drawing. For example,
a decommissioned switch bay shall be labelled “Spare Bay.”

[Link] The title block of the Connection Point Drawing shall include the names
of authorized persons together with provision for the details of
revisions, dates, and signatures.

2.6.12 Changes to Connection Point Drawings

[Link] If ZEDC or a User decides to add new Equipment or change an
existing Equipment Identification, ZEDC or the User, as the case may
be, shall provide the other party a revised Connection Point Drawing, at
least one (1) month prior to the proposed addition or change.

[Link] If the modification involves the replacement of existing

Equipment, the revised Connection Point Drawing shall be provided to

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 56 -

the other party in accordance with the schedule specified in the

Amended Connection Agreement.

[Link] The revised Connection Point Drawing shall incorporate the new
Equipment to be added, the existing Equipment to be replaced, or the
change in Equipment Identification.

[Link] ZEDC and the User shall, if they have agreed to do so in writing,
modify their respective copies of the Connection Point Drawings to
reflect the change that they have agreed on, in accordance with the
schedule specified in the Connection Agreement or Amended
Connection Agreement.

2.6.13 Validity of the Connection Point Drawings

[Link] The composite Connection Point Drawing prepared by the Distributor
or the User, in accordance with Section 2.8.1, shall be the Connection
Point Drawing to be used for all operational and planning activities
associated with the Connection Point.

[Link] If a dispute involving the accuracy of the composite Connection Point

Drawing arises, a meeting between the Distributor the User shall be
held as soon as possible, to resolve the dispute.

2.6.14 DISTRIBUTION DATA REGISTRATION

[Link] Data to be Registered

[Link].1 The data relating to the Connection Point and the Customer
Development that are submitted by the User to ZEDC shall be
registered according to the following data categories:
(a) Forecast Data;
(b) Estimated Equipment Data; and
(c) Registered Equipment Data.
[Link].2 The Forecast Data, including Demand and Active Energy, shall contain
the Customer ‘s best estimate of the data being projected for the five
(5) succeeding years.
[Link].3 The Estimated Equipment Data shall contain the Customer ’s best
estimate of the values of parameters and information about the
Equipment for the five (5) succeeding years.
[Link].4 The Registered Equipment Data shall contain validated actual values of
parameters and information about the Equipment that are submitted

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 57 -

by the User to ZEDC at the connection date. The Registered

Equipment Data shall include the Connected Project Planning Data,
which shall replace any estimated values of parameters and
information about the Equipment previously submitted as Preliminary
Project Planning Data and Committed Project Planning Data.

2.6.15 Stages of Data Registration

[Link] The data relating to the Connection Point and the User Development
that are submitted by a User applying for a Connection Agreement or
an Amended Connection Agreement shall be registered in three (3)
stages and classified accordingly as:
(a) Preliminary Project Planning Data;
(b) Committed Project Planning Data; and
(c) Connected Project Planning Data;

[Link] The data that are submitted at the time of application for a
Connection Agreement or an Amended Connection Agreement shall be
considered as Preliminary Project Planning Data. These data shall
contain the Standard Planning Data specified in Section 4.4, and the
Detailed Planning Data specified in Section 4.5, when required ahead
of the schedule specified in the Connection Agreement or Amended
Connection Agreement.

[Link] Once the Connection Agreement or the Amended Connection

Agreement is signed, the Preliminary Project Planning Data shall
become the Committed Project Planning Data, which shall be used in
evaluating other applications for Distribution System connection or
modification of existing Distribution System connections and in
preparing the Distribution Development Plan.

[Link] The Estimated Equipment Data shall be updated, confirmed, and

replaced with validated actual values of parameters and information
about the Equipment at the time of connection, which shall become
the Connected Project Planning Data. These data shall be registered in
accordance with the categories specified in Section 2.9.1 (of The
Zimbabwe Grid Code) and shall be used in evaluating other applications
for Distribution System connection or modification of existing
Distribution System connections and in preparing the Distribution
Development Plan.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 58 -

2.6.16 Data Forms

ZEDC shall develop the forms for all data to be submitted in
accordance with an application for a Connection Agreement or an
Amended Connection Agreement.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 59 -

SECTION 3

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS AND CUSTOMER SERVICES CODE

3.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

3.1.1 Purpose

(a) To ensure the quality of electric power in the Distribution System;

(b) To ensure that the Distribution System will be operated in a safe and
efficient manner and with a high degree of reliability;

(c) To specify Customer Services for the protection of the End-Users;

and

(d) To specify safety standards for the protection of personnel in the

work environment.

3.1.2 Scope of Application

This Chapter applies to all Distribution System Users including:

(a) ZEDC;
(b) `Embedded Generators
(c) Users

3.2 POWER QUALITY STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS

3.2.1 Power Quality Problems

[Link] For the purpose of this section, Quality shall be defined as the quality
of the voltage, including its frequency and the resulting current, that
are measured in the Distribution System during normal conditions.

[Link] A Power Quality problem exists when at least one of the following
conditions is present and significantly affects the normal operation of
the System:

(a) The System Frequency has deviated from the nominal value of 50
Hz;

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 60 -

(b) Voltage magnitudes are outside their allowable range of variation;

(c) Harmonic Frequencies are present in the System;
(d) There is imbalance in the magnitude of the phase voltages;
(e) The phase displacement between the voltages is not equal to 120
degrees;
(f) Voltage fluctuations cause Flicker that is outside the allowable
Flicker Severity limits; or
(g) High-frequency Over voltages are present in the Distribution
System.

3.2.2 Frequency Variations

[Link] The nominal fundamental Frequency shall be 50 Hz.

[Link] The Distributor shall design and operate its System to assist the
System Operator in maintaining the fundamental Frequency within the
limits of 47.5 Hz and 52.5 Hz during normal conditions.

3.2.3 Voltage Variations

[Link] A distributor must maintain a nominal voltage level at the point of

supply to the customer’s electrical installation subject to applicable
regulations, at one of the following standard nominal voltages:

a) 225V

b) 390V

c) 11kV

d) 33kV

e) 88kV

f) 132kV

[Link] Variations from the relevant standard nominal voltage listed in

Clause [Link] may occur in accordance with Table 3.2.3 below.

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Table 3.2.3: Standard Nominal Voltage Variations

Voltage Range for Time Periods Impulse
Voltage Steady Less than Less than 10 Voltage
Level State 1 minute seconds
Variation
225V +/-6% +/-10% Phase to Earth +50% 6kV peak
-100%
390V
Phase to Phase +20%
-100%
11kV +/-10% +/-10% Phase to Earth +80% 95kV
-100% peak
Phase to Phase +20%
-100%
33kV +/-10% +/-10% Phase to Earth +80% 170kV
-100%
Phase to Phase +20%
-100%
88kV +/-10% +/-15% Phase to Earth +80% 550kV
-100%
Phase to Phase +20%

-100%

132kV +/-10% +/-15% Phase to Earth +80% 650kV

-100%
Phase to Phase +20%

-100%

[Link] A distributor must control over voltage in accordance with IEC

60364-4-443 and/or in accordance with Electricity (Supply)
Regulations

[Link] A distributor must use best endeavors to minimize the frequency of

voltage variations allowed under clause [Link] for periods of less than
1 minute.

[Link] A distributor may send, in accordance with IEC 1000-2-2, signals for
the following:

- ripple control systems; or

- medium-frequency power-line carrier systems; or

- frequency power-line carrier systems

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[Link] A distributor must monitor and record:

- steady state voltages and voltage variations at each primary

distribution substation in its distribution system which are
outside the limitations specified in Table 3.2.3 and
- steady state voltages and voltage variations of a duration of more
than one minute which are outside the range of steady state
voltages specified in Table 3.2.3 at the extremity of one feeder
supplied from each of those primary distribution substation
zones.

[Link] Without limiting the liability of a distributor under any other

compensate any person whose property is damaged due to voltage
variations outside the limits prescribed by Table 3.2.3 and in
accordance with any relevant regulations and guidelines approved by
ZERC.

3.2.4 Harmonics

[Link] For the purpose of this Section, Harmonics shall be defined as

sinusoidal voltages and currents having Frequencies that are
integral multiples of the fundamental Frequency.

[Link] The Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) shall be defined as the ratio of
the RMS value of the harmonic content to the RMS value of the
fundamental quantity, expressed in percent.

[Link] The Total Demand Distortion (TDD) shall be defined as the ratio of
the RMS value of the harmonic content to the RMS value of the rated
or maximum fundamental quantity, expressed in percent.

[Link] A distributor must endeavor to keep harmonic levels in the voltage at

points of common coupling nearest to a customer’s point of supply
within the levels specified in Table 3.2.4 below:

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Table [Link]: Voltage Harmonic Distortion Limits

Voltage at Total Harmonic Individual Harmonic

Point of Voltage Voltage Distortion
Common Distortion VT (%)
Coupling (%) Odd Even
Up to 390V 5% 4% 2%

11kV 4% 3% 1.75%

33kV 3% 2% 1%

88kV 1.5% 1% 0.5%

132kV 1.5% 1% 0.5%

[Link] Subject to clause [Link], a distributor must comply with the IEEE
Standard 519-1992 ‘Recommended Practices and Requirements for
Harmonic Control in Electrical Power Systems’.

[Link] A customer must keep harmonic currents below the limits specified in
Table [Link] and otherwise comply at its nearest point of common
coupling with the IEEE Standard 519-1992 ‘Recommended Practices
and Requirements for Harmonic Control in Electrical Power Systems’.

Table [Link]: Current Harmonic Distortion Limits

Maximum Harmonic Current Distortion in Percent IL

Individual Harmonic Order “h” (Odd Harmonics)

<11 11≤h17 17≤h<23 23≤h <35 35≤h Total

Harmonic
ISC/IL
Distortion

<20* 4.0% 2.0% 1.5% 0.6% 0.3% 5.0%

20<50 7.0% 3.5% 2.5% 1.0% 0.5% 8.0%

50<100 10.0% 4.5% 4.0% 1.5% 0.7% 12.0%

100<1000 12.0% 5.5% 5.0% 2.0% 1.0% 15.0%

>1000 15.0% 7.0% 6.0% 2.5% 1.4% 20.0%

Notes:

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 64 -

1. Even harmonics are limited to 25% of the odd harmonics listed above.
2. Current distortions that result in a DC offset, e.g. half-wave converters are not allowed.
3. *All power generation equipment is limited to these values of current distortion, regardless
of actual ISC/IL.
4. Isc = maximum short-circuit current at point of common coupling.
5. IL = maximum demand load current (fundamental frequency component) at point of common
coupling.

3.2.5 Disturbing Loads

[Link] A distributor must maintain voltage fluctuations at the point of

common coupling at a level no greater than the levels specified in
appropriate regulations and guidelines.

[Link] Subject to clause [Link], a customer must ensure that the customer’s
equipment does not cause voltage fluctuations at the point of common
coupling greater than the levels specified by the distributor and
approved by ZERC.

[Link] If two or more customers’ electrical installations are connected at the

same point of common coupling, the maximum permissible contribution
to voltage fluctuations allowable from each customer is to be
determined in proportion to their respective maximum demand, unless
otherwise agreed.

3.2.6 Inductive Interference

A distributor must ensure that inductive interference caused by its

distribution system is within the limits specified in applicable
regulations and guidelines.

[Link] Negative Sequence Voltage

A distributor shall maintain the negative sequence voltage at the point
of common coupling to a customer’s three-phase electrical installation
at a level at or less than 2% of the positive sequence voltage.

[Link] The negative sequence voltage may vary above 2% of an applicable

voltage level, but not for more than 5 minutes in every 30-minute
period.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 65 -

3.2.7 Load Balance

[Link] A customer must ensure that the current in each phase of a three
phase electrical installation does not deviate from the average of the
three phase currents:

(a) By more than 5% for a standard nominal voltage up to 1kV; and

(b) By more than 2% for a standard nominal voltage above 1kV.

[Link] Notwithstanding clause [Link] above, deviations are permissible for

periods of less than 2 minutes:

(a) Up to 10% for a standard nominal voltage up to 1kV;

and
(b) Up to 4% for a standard nominal voltage above 1kV

3.2.8 Power Factor

[Link] A customer must ensure that the customer’s demand for reactive
power does not exceed the maximum level allowed by applying the
power factor limits specified in Table 3.2.9 to the customer’s
maximum demand for apparent power (measured in kVA) or active
power (measured in kW).

[Link] If, for the purposes of clause [Link], the customer’s maximum demand
for apparent power (Rmax) is used, then the customer’s allowable
demand for reactive power (Qmax) is calculated using the formula
Qmax = Rmax*(1-pfmin2)1/2, where pfmin is the minimum power factor
specified in Table 3.2.9.

[Link] If, for the purposes of clause [Link], the customer’s maximum demand
for active power (Pmax) is used, then the customer’s allowable demand
for reactive power (Qmax) is calculated using the formula Qmax =
(Pmax/pfmin)*(1-pfmin2)1/2, where pfmin is the minimum power factor
specified in Table 3.2.9.

[Link] If the customer’s network tariff includes a charge for the maximum
demand for apparent or active power, then, for the purposes of this
clause [Link], the customer’s maximum demand for apparent or active
power is to be taken to be the maximum demand for which it was most
recently billed.

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 66 -

[Link] A customer must use best endeavors to keep the power factor of
its electrical installation within the relevant range set out in Table
3.2.9 when the customer’s demand for active or apparent power is
at or more than 50% of the customer’s maximum demand.

[Link] A customer shall ensure that the electrical installation’s demand

for reactive power is maintained within power factor limits shown in
Table 3.2.8.

Table 3.2.8: Power Factor Limits

Power Factor Range for Customer Maximum Demand and

Voltage
Supply Between
Up to 200kVA Over 2MVA
Voltage 200kVA-2MVA
Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum Minimum
Leading Lagging Leading
Lagging Lagging Leading
225V 0.75 0.75 0.8 0.8 0.85 0.85
390V 0.75 0.75 0.8 0.8 0.85 0.85
11kV 0.8 0.8 0.85 0.85 0.9 0.9
33kV 0.8 0.8 0.85 0.85 0.9 0.9
88kV 0.85 0.85 0.9 0.9 0.95 0.95
132kV 0.85 0.85 0.9 0.9 0.95 0.95

3.2.9 Power Factor Penalty

[Link] A customer that does not maintain its power factor above the
minimums stated in Table 3.2.9 above shall be levied an appropriate
power factor penalty per month until the customer corrects such
poor power factor. The applicable penalties and levies shall be
subject to ZERC’s approval.

3.2.10 Voltage Fluctuation and Flicker Severity

If the voltage fluctuates, the luminous intensity of the lamps and

TV’s will fluctuate correspondingly. If the fluctuation is of a
magnitude and frequency perceptible to the eye, it becomes flicker.
Flicker could range from annoying to complete interference of
normal activity. Flicker is not usually produced by the power System

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 67 -

but by customer loads such as arc furnaces, compressors, starting

of large motors, etc. Since voltage fluctuation of the System
affects other users on the same System, ZEDC shall direct the
management of flicker on its lines and station buses. At the same
time, flicker-generating loads connected to the System have to be
controlled. ZEDC reserves the right to disconnect any excessive
flicker-generating load until the Distribution System User rectifies
the problem.

3.2.11 Indicator of Quality for System Flicker

Flicker is the impression of unsteadiness of visual sensation induced

by a light stimulus whose luminance or spectral distribution
fluctuates with time. It is generated by customers and is indicated
by the short-term flicker severity index index Pst, as defined in
IEC Standard 61000-3-7 and measured with a flicker meter that
meets the specification of IEC Standard 868 or IEC Std 61000-4-
15. For the purpose of regulation, Pst, the short-term flicker
severity index, is selected as the indicator of quality. Pst is
considered to be the measure of visual severity of flicker derived
from a time series output of a flicker meter over a ten-minute
interval.

3.2.12 Limits

Pst = 1, which is equivalent to the threshold of perception, is the allowable

level of flicker on the Distribution System. Tolerance for customer-
generated flicker varies with the relative strength (short circuit ratio) of
the load and voltage level. Limits are given in the following table.

Table 3.2.12: Limits of flicker produced by Users

Short Circuit Ratio Voltage Pst

SL/SCC

SL/SCC ≤ 0.04 HV 0.37

EHV 0.58

HV 0.8

SL/SCC > 0.04 EHV 1.0

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 68 -

3.2.13 Monitoring Control and Measurement

Substations, which supply heavy industrial loads such as furnaces,

steel mills, etc., are targets for flicker monitoring. Other
substations and Connection Point will be selected for monitoring on
a random basis. At least one site is monitored each month. The list
of monitoring points is submitted to Distribution System Users for
approval at least 2 months before the monitoring. The flicker
measurement will be conducted at 10-minute intervals according to
procedures outlined in IEC Std 61000-4-15. Each site is measured
for one (1) week

3.2.14 Voltage Unbalance

[Link] For the purpose of this Section, Voltage Unbalance shall be defined
as the maximum deviation from the average of the three phase
voltages divided by the average of the three phase voltages,
expressed in percent.

[Link] The maximum Voltage Unbalance at the Connection Point of any

User, excluding the Voltage Unbalance passed on from the
Distribution System shall not exceed 2.5 percent during normal
operating conditions.
[Link] The phase voltages of a 3-phase supply should be of equal
magnitude and 120o apart in phase angle. Deviations will result in
decreased efficiency, negative torque, vibrations and overheating.
Severe unbalance could lead to malfunctioning of some equipment.
Voltage unbalance is defined as:

Voltage Unbalance = Deviation between highest and lowest phases

Average voltage of three phases
Limits for voltage unbalance are:

220kV and above: 2%

Below 220 kV: 3%

Balancing loads on individual phases will help greatly in avoiding

unbalanced voltages.

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3.2.15 Transient Voltage Variations

[Link] For the purpose of this Section, Transient Voltages shall be

defined as the high frequency over voltages that are generally
shorter in duration compared to the Short Duration Voltage
Variations.

[Link] Infrequent short-duration peaks may be permitted to exceed the

levels specified in Section 3.2.4 for TDD and THD provided that
such increases do not compromise the service to other End-Users
or cause damage to any Equipment in the Distribution System.

3.3 RELIABILITY STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS

3.3.1 Criteria for Establishing Distribution Reliability Standards

[Link] ZERC shall impose a uniform system of recording and reporting of

Distribution System reliability performance.

[Link] The same reliability indices shall be imposed on all Distribution

Utilities.

[Link] The Distribution System shall be evaluated quarterly to compare its

actual performance with the targets.

3.3.2 Distribution Reliability Indices

[Link] Distributor’s Targets

[Link] Before 31st December each year, a distributor must publish in its
customer protection standards and in a newspaper with wide
circulation, its targets for reliability of supply for the following
year.

[Link] As a minimum, these targets (which shall distinguish between

customers supplied from urban feeders and rural feeders) shall
include:

(a) System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIFI);

(b) System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI); and

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Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 70 -

(c) Momentary Average Interruption Frequency Index (MAIFI).

[Link] The System Average Interruption Frequency Index shall be

defined as the total number of sustained Customer power
Interruptions within a given period divided by the total number of
Customers served within the same period.

[Link] The System Average Interruption Duration Index shall be defined

as the total duration of sustained Customer power Interruptions
within a given period divided by the total number of Customers
served within the same period.

[Link] The Momentary Average Interruption Frequency Index shall be

defined as the total number of momentary Customer power
Interruptions within a given period divided by the total number of
Customers served within the same period.

3.4 Inclusions and Exclusions of Interruption Events

3.4.1 A power Interruption shall include any Outage in the primary

Distribution System, extending from the distribution substation to
the distribution transformers, which may be due to the tripping
action of protective devices during faults or the failure of primary
distribution lines and/or transformers, and which results in the loss
of service to one or more Customers or Users.

3.4.2 The following events shall be excluded in the calculation of the

reliability indices:

(b) Outages that occur on the secondary lines of the Distribution

System;
(c) Outages due to generation, transmission line, or transmission
substation failure;
(d) Planned Outages where the Customers or Users have been
notified at least three (3) days prior to the loss of power;
(e) Outages that are initiated by the System Operator during the
occurrence of Significant Incidents or the failure of their
facilities;
(f) Outages caused by Adverse Weather or Major Storm Disasters
which result in the declaration by the government of a state of
calamity in the franchise area of the Distributor; and

70
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 71 -

(g) Outages due to other events that ZERC shall approve after due
notice and hearing.

3.4.4 Submission of Distribution Reliability Reports and Performance

Targets

[Link] The Distributor shall submit every three (3) months the monthly
Interruption reports for its Distribution System using the standard
format prescribed by ZERC.

[Link] ZERC shall set the performance targets for each Distribution
System.

3.5 SYSTEM EFFICIENCY STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS

3.5.1 System Loss Classifications

[Link] System Loss shall be classified into two categories: Technical Loss
and Non-Technical Loss, and Administrative Loss.

[Link] The Technical Loss shall be the aggregate of conductor loss, the
core loss in transformers, and any loss due to technical metering
error.

[Link] The Non-Technical Loss shall be the aggregate of the Energy lost
due to pilferage, meter-reading errors, and meter tampering.

[Link] The Administrative Loss shall include the Energy that is required
for the proper operation of the Distribution System and any
unbilled Energy for community-related activities.

3.5.2 System Loss Cap

[Link] The Distributor shall identify and report separately to ZERC the
Technical and Non-Technical Losses in its Distribution System.

[Link] ZERC shall, after due notice and hearing, prescribe a cap on the
System Loss that the Distributor can pass on to its End-Users.
Separate caps shall be set for the Technical and Non-Technical
Losses.

71
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 72 -

[Link] The Distributor shall submit to ZERC an application for the

approval of its Administrative Loss. The allowance for
Administrative Loss shall be approved by ZERC.

3.5.3 Power Factor at the Connection Point

[Link] All Users of the Distribution System shall maintain a Power Factor
of not less than 90 percent lagging at the Connection Point.

[Link] The Distributor may establish penalties for User Power Factors
that are less than a specified target level, and incentives for User
Power Factors that are greater than the target level.

[Link] The Distributor shall correct feeder and substation feeder bus
Reactive Power Demand to a level, which will economically reduce
feeder loss.

3.6 CUSTOMER SERVICE STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS

3.6.1 Customer Service Standards

[Link] The Customer Service Standards for Distributors shall be:

(a) Guaranteed Standards; and
(b) Overall Standards.

[Link] Guaranteed Standards shall refer to the Customer Services where

a penalty is imposed on the Distributor for failing to meet the
target level of performance. The penalty is given to the affected
Customer.

[Link] Overall Standards shall refer to the Customer Services where it is

not appropriate to give a guarantee, but where the Customers have
a right to expect the Distributor to deliver a reasonable level of
service.

3.6.2 Measuring Customer Service Performance

[Link] The evaluation of the Customer Service performance of the

Distributor shall include:
(a) Prescriptive Approach; and
(b) Customer Rating Approach.

72
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 73 -

[Link] In the Prescriptive Approach, the Distributor shall file an

application with ZERC for the approval of its Customer Service
Program including the specified levels of performance or targets.

[Link] In the Customer Rating Approach, the Distributor shall

commission an independent entity, accredited by the ZERC, to
conduct a Transactions Survey.

3.6.3 Customer Service Standards for Distributors

[Link] The Distributor shall submit to ZERC for approval the target levels
for the Customer Services listed in Table 3.7. The Distributor shall
justify the basis for the target levels of performance.

[Link] The Distributor shall be evaluated annually to compare its actual

performance with the targets.

3.7 Guaranteed Standards of Performance

Guarantee No 1. Restoration of Power Supply

Faults will sometimes be experienced on the network. If
supply is not restored within the prescribed period after an
ordinary fault, ZEDC will pay the relevant compensation if
the customer makes a claim. This guarantee does not apply
during storms, theft and vandalism of electrical
infrastructure and major network faults for which proactive
and/or timeous communication will be made to customers
through the public media.

Guarantee No 2. Planned Interruption of Supply

ZEDC will from time to time require interrupting the supply
to customers’ premises for the purpose of maintenance,
testing or alterations. If the company fails to give the
customer at least 2 days prior notice of the interruption,
compensation will be paid if the customer makes a claim.
Notification will be given through the public media or local
notices depending on the number of customers affected. It
is specifically recorded that ZEDC will notify customers
through selected but not all public media.

Guarantee No 3. Voltage Complaints

73
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 74 -

Normal contractual supply voltage is 220/230 volts single phase

and 380/400 volts three phase. Guaranteed deviations are 210
volts – 240 volts single-phase and 365 volts – 425 volts three
phase. If there is suspicion that the supply is being given outside
these permitted limits, ZEDC will visit the customers’ premises for
an investigation within the prescribed period of the complaint.
Compensation will be paid if the customer makes a claim where the
prescribed period is exceeded.

Guarantee No 4. New Connections

The new connections guarantee applies where reticulation exists at
the customers’ premises. ZEDC guarantees to have the service
installed within 20 working days of settlement of necessary
connection fees and the customer being ready to take supply.
Should this period be exceeded compensation will be made in the
event of a claim. It is specifically recorded that ZEDC will not
accept connection fees from a prospective customer if the
company (ZEDC) cannot provide the connection within the
prescribed period for reasons of material constraints.

Guarantee No 5. Quotations
This guarantee applies where a customer submits a completed
application form for a non-standard supply and a site visit is
required. Compensation will be paid if the quotation is not
sent within the prescribed period after the customer has
supplied all relevant information.

Guarantee No 6. Meter Accuracy

The energy meter has a guaranteed accuracy of + 3%.
Should customers suspect meters to be operating outside
these limits, testing will be done and results given within the
prescribed period. Compensation will be paid should customer
not get results within the period if a claim is made. If meter
is found operating outside the limit customers consumption
will be adjusted for a 3-month period proceeding the test
date. Should meter be found operating within prescribed
limits the costs of the test will be debited to the customer’s
account.

74
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 75 -

Guarantee No 7. Account Queries

This guarantee applies to written queries requiring
investigations. If a response is not made within the
prescribed period, compensation will be paid if the customer
makes a claim.
Guarantee No 8. Reconnection of Supply
ZEDC may be forced to withdraw supply for non-payment of
accounts. Should company fail to reconnect within the
prescribed period, compensation will be paid should the
customer make a claim.

Guarantee No 9. Making and Keeping Appointments

Company officials may wish to visit customers in connection
with licensee activities or customers may make appointment
requests. ZEDC values the appointments but it may not be
possible to stick to the original arrangement. Should a
problem arise the customer will be advised within the
prescribed period. Compensation will be paid should the
customer claim when an appointment is not honoured.

75
 Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 76 -

Table 3.7 Guaranteed Standards Of Performance

Service NO. SERVICE TYPE REQUIRED PERFORMANCE PAYMENT

Category

QUALITY OF 1. Restoring supplies Failure to restore supply within 24 $500000.00

SUPPLY
after fault hours of notification.
2. Notice of normal Failure to notify customers 48 $500000.00
planned hours before scheduled up to
interruption of maintenance $1000000.00
supply (non-
domestic)
3. Voltage Failure to visit and give a $800,000.00
Complaints substantive reply within 10 working plus full
investigations days restitution

QUOTATIONS 4. New Connections Failure to connect a standard $800,000.00

AND domestic point within 45 meters of
CONNECTIONS
reticulation within 30 working days
of the customer being ready to take
supply.
5. Quotations for Failure to give non-standard supply
new supplies quotations within 30 working days $500,000.00
of availability of all relevant per day up to
customers – supplied information. $100,000,000
QUALITY OF 6. Meter Accuracy Failure to investigate meter $1,000,000
SERVICE
accuracy within 10 working days of
request
7. Account queries Failure to post substantive reply $100,000.00
within 7 working days
8. Reconnection of Failure to reconnect following $500,000
Supply disconnection for non-payment of
account within 24 hours of payment
except for payments made on a
Friday when reconnection can be
delayed up to 56 hours.
9. Making and Failure to give 24 hours notice if $300,000.00
keeping granted appointment cannot be met.
appointments

76
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 77 -

TABLE 3.8 Overall Standards of Performance

NO. REQUIRED PERFORMANCE

SERVICE

1. Average arrival time at fault

-urban 60 minutes
-rural 4 hours

2. Minimum percentage of
faults repaired within 3 90%
hours

3. All voltage complaints to be Within 6 months

resolved
4. Non-standard Within 20 working days of payment
new connection and the customer being ready to take
supply.

5. Reconnection/Disconnection Within 24 hours of request except

request for requests made on a Friday where
(Change of Tenancy) applicable time is up to 56 hours.

6. Change of Tariff Request Completion of investigations within 10

working days of customer request

7. Meter Relocation Within 15 working days of request

8. Bill Dispatch Within 5 working days of meter reading

and upon settlement of any applicable
fee by the customer.

9. Meter reading query Resolve within 14 working days

10. Meter Reading Frequency At least once in three months

11. Responding to all Customer Within 7 working days

Letters
12. Responding to prepayment Within 24 hours of report
meter faults
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 78 -

SECTION 4

4 DISTRIBUTION PLANNING CODE

4.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

4.1.1 Purpose

(a) To specify the responsibilities of the Distributor, the

Distribution System Users in planning the development of the
Distribution System;
(b) To specify the technical studies and planning procedures that
will ensure the safety and reliability of the Distribution
System;
(c) To specify the planning data required for a User seeking a new
or a modification of an existing connection to the Distribution
System; and
(d) To specify the data requirements to be used by ZEDC in
planning the development of the Distribution System.

4.1.2 Scope of Application

This Section applies to all Distribution System Users including:
(a) ZEDC
(b) Embedded Generators;
(c) Users; and
(d) Any other a User System connected to the Distribution
System.

4.2 DISTRIBUTION PLANNING RESPONSIBILITIES AND

PROCEDURES

4.2.1 Distribution Planning Responsibilities

[Link] ZEDC shall be responsible for Distribution Planning, including:

(a) Analyzing the impact of the connection of new facilities such as
Embedded Generating Plants, Loads, distribution lines, or
substations;
(b) Planning the expansion of the Distribution System to ensure
its adequacy to meet forecasted Demand and the connection
of new Embedded Generating Plants; and
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 79 -

(d) Identifying and correcting problems on Power Quality,

System Loss, and Reliability in the Distribution System.

[Link] The Users of the Distribution System, including Embedded

Generators, Large Customers, and other entities that have a
System connected to the Distribution System shall cooperate with
ZEDC in maintaining a Distribution Planning data bank.

4.2.2 Submission of Planning Data

[Link] Any User applying for connection or a modification of an existing

connection to the Distribution System shall submit to ZEDC the
relevant Standard Planning Data specified in Section 4.4 and the
Detailed Planning Data specified in Section 4.5, in accordance with
the requirements prescribed in Section 4.3.

[Link] All Users shall submit annually to the Distributor the relevant
historical planning data for the previous year and the forecast
planning data for the five (5) succeeding years . These shall include
the updated Standard Planning Data and the Detailed Planning
Data.

[Link] The required Standard Planning Data specified in Section 4.4 shall
consist of information necessary for the Distributor to evaluate
the impact of any User Development on the Distribution System.

[Link] The Detailed Planning Data specified in Section 4.5 shall include
additional information necessary for the conduct of a more
accurate Distribution Planning study. This shall cover circuit
parameters, switchgear, and protection arrangements of equipment
directly connected to or affecting the Distribution System. The
data shall be adequate to enable the Distributor to assess any
implication associated with the Connection Points.

[Link] The Standard Planning Data and Detailed Planning Data shall be
submitted by the User to the Distributor according to the
following :

(a) Forecast Data;

Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 80 -

(b) Estimated Equipment Data; and

(c) Registered Equipment Data.

[Link] The Forecast Data shall contain the User’s best estimate of the
data, including Energy and Demand, being projected for the five (5)
succeeding years.

[Link] The Estimated Equipment Data shall contain the User’s best
estimate of the values of parameters and information pertaining to
its Equipment.

[Link] The Registered Equipment Data shall contain validated actual

values of parameters and information about the User’s Equipment,
which are part of the Connected Project Planning Data submitted
by the User to the Distributor at the time of connection.

4.2.3 Consolidation and Maintenance of Planning Data

[Link] The Distributor shall consolidate and maintain the Distribution

planning data according to the following categories:

(a) Forecast Data;

(b) Estimated Equipment Data; and

(c) Registered Equipment Data.

[Link] If there is any change to its planning data, the customer shall
notify ZEDC of the change as soon as possible. The notification
shall contain the time and date when the change took effect, or is
expected to take effect, as the case may be. If the change is
temporary, the time and date when the data is expected to revert
to its previous registered value shall also be indicated in the
notification.

4.2.4 Evaluation of Proposed Development

[Link] The Distributor shall conduct Distribution Impact Studies to

assess the effect of the proposed User Development on the
Distribution System and the System of other Users.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 81 -

[Link] The Distributor shall notify the User of the results of the
Distribution Impact Studies.

[Link] The Distributor shall also notify the User of any planned
development in the Distribution System that may have an impact on
the User System.

4.2.5 Preparation of Distribution Development Plan

[Link] The Distributor shall collate and process the planning data
submitted by the Users into a cohesive forecast and use this in
preparing the data for the Distribution Development Plan (DDP).

[Link] The Distributor shall develop and submit annually to ZERC a

Distribution Development Plan.

[Link] The Distribution Development Plan shall include:

(a) Energy and Demand forecasts;

(b) Distribution substation siting and sizing;
(c) Distribution feeder routing and sizing;
(d) Distribution Reactive Power compensation plan;
(e) Other Distribution reinforcement plans; and of the technical
and economic analysis performed to justify the DDP.

[Link] If a User believes that the cohesive forecast prepared by the

Distributor does not accurately reflect its assumptions on the
planning data, it shall promptly notify the Distributor of its
concern. The Distributor and the User shall promptly meet to
address the concern of the User.

4.3 DISTRIBUTION PLANNING STUDIES

4.3.1 Distribution Planning Studies to be Conducted

[Link] The Distributor shall conduct Distribution planning studies to

ensure the safety and Reliability of the Distribution System for
the following:
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 82 -

(a) Preparation of the Distribution Development Program to be

submitted annually to ZERC;

(b) Evaluation of Distribution System reinforcement projects; and

(c) Evaluation of any proposed User Development, which is

submitted in accordance with an application for a Connection
Agreement or an Amended Connection Agreement.

[Link] The Distribution Planning studies shall be conducted to assess the

impact on the Distribution System or to any User System of any
Demand Forecast or any proposed Equipment change in the
Distribution System or the User System and to identify corrective
measures to eliminate the deficiencies in the Distribution System
or the User System.

[Link] The relevant technical studies described in Sections 4.3.2 to 4.3.5

and the required planning data specified in Sections 4.4 and 4.5
shall be used in the conduct of the Distribution Planning studies.

[Link] The Distributor shall conduct distribution planning analysis which

shall include:

(a) The determination of optimum patterns for the selection of

sites and sizes of distribution substation;
(b) The determination of optimum patterns for feeder
development;
(c) The development of optimum Reactive Power compensation
programs; and
(d) The development of an optimum feeder configuration and
switching controls for distribution feeders.

[Link] The Distribution planning studies shall be performed using life

cycle costing methods. The cost of capital and the discount rate
used in such analysis shall be prescribed by the ZERC.

4.3.2 Voltage Drop Studies

[Link] Voltage drop Studies shall be performed to determine the

voltages at the Connection Points for the forecasted Demand of
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 83 -

the existing Distribution System and any planned expansion,

reinforcement, or development.

[Link] Voltage drop Studies shall be performed to evaluate the impact on

the Distribution System of the connection of new Embedded
Generating Plants,Loads, or distribution lines.

4.3.3 Short Circuit Studies

[Link] Short circuit studies shall be performed to evaluate the effect on

the Distribution System Equipment of the connection of new
Generating Plants and other facilities that will result in increased
fault duties for the Distribution System Equipment. These studies
shall identify the Equipment that could be damaged when current
exceeds the design limit of the Equipment. The studies shall also
identify the Circuit Breakers and fuses, which may fail when
interrupting possible short circuit currents.

[Link] Three-phase short-circuit studies shall be performed for all

nodes of the Distribution System for the maximum and minimum
generation scenarios of the Distribution System and for different
system circuit configurations. Single line-to-ground fault studies
shall also be performed for critical Distribution System nodes.
These studies shall identify the most severe conditions that the
Distribution System Equipment may be exposed to.

[Link] The Distributor and the User shall exchange information on fault
in feed levels at the Connection Point. This shall include:

(a) The maximum and minimum three-phase and line-to-ground fault

in feeds;
(b) The X/R ratio under short circuit conditions; and
(c) In the case of interconnected Systems, an adequate equivalent
network representation for short circuit calculations.

[Link] Alternative Distribution System circuit configurations may be

studied to reduce the short circuit current within the limits of
existing Equipment. The results shall be considered satisfactory
when the short-circuit currents are within the design limits of
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 84 -

Equipment and the proposed Distribution System configurations

are suitable for flexible and safe operation.

4.3.4 System Loss Studies

[Link] System Loss studies shall be performed to identify, classify, and

quantify the losses in the Distribution System. The various
categories and components of System Loss specified in Section 3.4
shall be identified and quantified in conducting the System Loss
studies.

[Link] System Loss studies shall be performed to determine the effects

of any User Development and any development in the Distribution
System on the efficiency of the Distribution System.

4.3.5 Distribution Reliability Studies

[Link] Distribution Reliability studies shall be performed to determine

the frequency and duration of Customer Interruptions in the
Distribution System.

[Link] The historical Reliability performance of the Distribution System

shall be determined from the Interruptions data of the
Distribution System.

4.4 STANDARD PLANNING DATA

4.4.1 Energy and Demand Forecast

[Link] The Customer (Distributing 100kW or more) shall provide the

Distributor with its Energy and Demand forecasts at each
Connection Point for the five (5) succeeding years if need be.

[Link] The Forecast Data for the first year shall include monthly Energy
and Demand forecasts, while the remaining four years shall include
only the annual Energy and Demand forecasts.

[Link] The Customers shall provide the net values of Energy and Demand
forecast after any deductions to reflect the output of a Customer
Self-Generating Plant. Such deductions shall be stated separately
in the Forecast Data.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 85 -

[Link] The following factors shall be taken into account by the

Distributor and the Customer when forecasting Demand:

(a) Historical Demand data;

(b) Demand trends;
(c) Significant public events;
(d) Customer Self-Generating Plant Schedules;
(e) Demand transfers;
(f) Interconnection with adjacent Distributors; and
(g) Other relevant factors.

[Link] The Embedded Generator shall submit to the Distributor the

projected Energy and Demand to be generated by each Embedded
Generating Unit and Embedded Generating Plant.

4.4.2 Embedded Generating Unit Data

[Link] The Embedded Generator shall provide the Distributor with data
relating to the Embedded Generating Units of each Embedded
Generating Plant.

[Link] The following information shall be provided for the Embedded

Generating Units of each Generating Plant:

(a) Rated Capacity (MVA and MW);

(b) Rated Voltage (kV);
(c) Type of Generating Unit and expected running mode(s);
(d) Direct axis subtransient reactance (%); and
(e) Rated capacity, voltage, and impedance of the Generating Unit’s
step-up transformer.

[Link] If the Generating Unit is connected to the Distribution System at

a Connection Point with a bus arrangement which is, or may be
operated in separate sections, the bus section to which each
Generating Unit is connected shall be identified.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 86 -

4.4.3 User System Data

[Link] If the User is to be connected at Low Voltage, the following data

shall be provided to the Distributor:

(a) Connected Loads; and

(b) Maximum Demand.

[Link] If the User is to be connected at Medium Voltage or High

Voltage, the following data shall be provided to the Distributor:

(a) All types of Loads:

(1) Connected Load, including type and control arrangements;
(2) Maximum Demand;

(b) Fluctuating and Cyclical Loads:

(1) The rate of change of the Demand;
(2) The switching interval; and
(3) The magnitude of the largest step change.

[Link] The Customer shall provide the Electrical Diagrams and

Connection Point Drawings of the User System and the Connection
Point, as specified in Articles 4.7 and 4.8, respectively. The
diagrams and drawings shall indicate the quantities, ratings, and
operating parameters of the following:

(a) Equipment (e.g., Generating Unit, power transformer, and

Circuit Breaker);
(b) Electrical circuits (e.g., overhead lines and underground cables);
(c) Substation bus arrangements;
(d) Grounding arrangements;
(e) Phasing arrangements; and
(f) Switching facilities.

[Link] The User shall provide the values of the following circuit
parameters of the overhead lines and/or underground cables from
the User’s substation to the Connection Point in the Distribution
System:

(a) Rated and operating voltage (kV);

(b) Positive sequence resistance and reactance (ohm);
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 87 -

(c) Positive sequence shunt susceptance (Siemens or ohm-1);

(d) Zero sequence resistance and reactance (ohm); and
(e) Zero sequence susceptance (Siemens or ohm-1).

[Link] If the User System is connected to the Distribution System

through a step up transformer, the following data for the power
transformers shall be provided:

(a) Rated MVA;

(b) Rated voltages (kV);
(c) Winding arrangement;
(d) Positive sequence resistance and reactance (at max, min, and
nominal tap);
(e) Zero sequence reactance for three-legged core type
transformer;
(f) Tap changer range, step size and type (on-load or off-load); and
(g) Basic Lightning Impulse Insulation Level (kV).

[Link] The User shall provide the following information for the
switchgear,including circuit breakers, load break switches, and
disconnect switches at the Connection Point and at the substation
of the User:

(a) Rated voltage (kV);

(b) Rated current (A);
(c) Rated symmetrical RMS short-circuit current (kA); and
(d) Basic Lightning Impulse Insulation Level (kV).

[Link] The User shall provide the details of its System Grounding. This
shall include the rated capacity and impedances of the Grounding
Equipment.

[Link] The User shall provide the data on independently-switched

Reactive Power compensation Equipment at the Connection Point
and at the substation of the Customer . This shall include the
following information:

(a) Rated Capacity (MVAR);

(b) Rated Voltage (kV);
(c) Type (e.g., shunt inductor, shunt capacitor, static var
compensator); and
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 88 -

(d) Operation and control details (e.g. fixed or variable, automatic,

or manual).

[Link] If a significant portion of the User’s Demand may be supplied

from an alternative Connection Point, the relevant information on
the Demand transfer capability shall be provided by the User
including the following:

(a) The alternative Connection Point;

(b) The Demand normally supplied from each alternative Connection
Point;
(c) The Demand which may be transferred from or to each
alternative Connection Point; and
(d) The control (e.g. manual or automatic) arrangements for
transfer including the time required to effect the transfer for
forced outage and planned maintenance conditions.

[Link] If the User has an Embedded Generating Plant and/or

significantly large motors, the short circuit contributions of the
Embedded Generating Units and the large motors at the Connection
Point shall be provided by the User. The short circuit current shall
be calculated in accordance with the IEC Standards
or their equivalent national standards.

4.5 DETAILED PLANNING DATA

4.5.1 Embedded Generating Unit and Embedded Generating Plant Data

[Link] The following additional information shall be provided for the

Embedded Generating Units of each Generating Plant:

(a) Derated Capacity (MW) on a monthly basis if applicable;

(b) Additional capacity (MW) obtainable from Generating Units in
excess of Net Declared Capacity;
(c) Minimum Stable Loading (MW);
(d) Reactive Power Capability Curve;
(e) Stator armature resistance;
(f) Direct axis synchronous, transient, and sub transient
reactances;
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 89 -

(g) Quadrature axis synchronous, transient, and sub transient

reactances;
(h) Direct axis transient and sub transient time constants;
(i) Quadrature axis transient and sub transient time constants;
(j) Turbine and Generating Unit inertia constant (MWsec/MVA);
(k) Rated field current (amps) at rated MW and MVAR output and
at rated terminal voltage; and
(l) Short circuit and open circuit characteristic curves.

[Link] The following information on Step-up Transformers shall be

provided for each Embedded Generating Unit:

(a) Rated MVA;

(b) Rated Frequency (Hz);
(c) Rated voltage (kV);
(d) Voltage ratio;
(e) Positive sequence reactance (maximum, minimum, and nominal
tap);
(f) Positive sequence resistance (maximum, minimum, and nominal
tap);
(g) Zero sequence reactance;
(h) Tap changer range;
(i) Tap changer step size; and
(j) Tap changer type: on load or off circuit.

[Link] The following excitation control system parameters shall be

submitted:

(a) DC gain of Excitation Loop;

(b) Rated field voltage;
(c) Maximum field voltage;
(d) Minimum field voltage;
(e) Maximum rate of change of field voltage (rising);
(f) Maximum rate of change of field voltage (falling);
(g) Details of Excitation Loop described in diagram form showing
transfer functions of individual elements;
(h) Dynamic characteristics of over excitation limiter; and
(i) Dynamic characteristics of under excitation limiter.

[Link] The following speed-governing parameters for reheat steam

Generating Units shall be submitted:
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 90 -

(a) High pressure governor average gain (MW/Hz);

(b) Speeder motor setting range;
(c) Speed droop characteristic curve;
(d) High pressure governor valve time constant;
(e) High pressure governor valve opening limits;
(f) High pressure governor valve rate limits;
(g) Reheater time constant (Active Energy stored in reheater);
(h) Intermediate pressure governor average gain (MW/Hz);
(i) Intermediate pressure governor setting range;
(j) Intermediate pressure governor valve time constant;
(k) Intermediate pressure governor valve opening limits;
(l) Intermediate pressure governor valve rate limits;
(m) Details of acceleration sensitive elements in high pressure and
intermediate pressure governor loop; and
(n) A governor block diagram showing the transfer functions of
individual elements.

[Link] The following speed-governing parameters for non-reheat steam,

gas turbine, geothermal, and hydro Generating Units shall be
submitted:

(a) Governor average gain;

(b) Speeder motor setting range;

(c) Speed droop characteristic curve;

(d) Time constant of steam or fuel governor valve or water column

inertia;

(e) Governor valve opening limits;

(f) Governor valve rate limits; and

(g) Time constant of turbine.

[Link] The following plant flexibility performance data for each

Generating Plant shall be submitted:
 Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 91 -

(a) Rate of loading following weekend Shutdown (Generating Unit

and Generating Plant);

(b) Rate of loading following an overnight Shutdown (Generating

Unit and Generating Plant);

(c) Block load following synchronizing;

(d) Rate of Load Reduction from normal rated MW;

(e) Regulating range; and

(f) Load rejection capability while still Synchronized and able to

supply load.

[Link] The following auxiliary Demand data shall be submitted:

(a) Normal unit-supplied auxiliary load for each Generating Unit at

rated MW output; and

(b) Each Generating Plant auxiliary Load other than (a) above and
where the station auxiliary Load is supplied from the Distribution
System.

4.5.2 User System Data

[Link] Large Customers and other Distributors connected to the

Distribution System shall submit to the Distributor the following
load characteristics:

(a) Maximum Demand on each phase at peak load condition;

(b) The Voltage Unbalance; and

(c) The harmonic content.

[Link] The Distributor. and the User shall exchange information, including
details of physical and electrical layouts, parameters,
specifications, and protection, needed to conduct an assessment of
transient Over voltage effects in the Distribution System or the
User System.
 Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 92 -

[Link] The User shall provide any additional planning data that may be
requested by the Distributor.

[Link] ZERC shall randomly inspect rural electrification lines during their
construction to check on their quality standards.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 93 -

SECTION 5

5 DISTRIBUTION OPERATIONS AND MAINTENANCE

CODE

5.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

5.1.1 Purpose

(a) To define the operational responsibilities of the Distributor and

all Distribution System Users;

(b) To specify the operational arrangements for mutual assistance,

Equipment and inventory sharing, and joint purchases among
Distributors;

(c) To specify the requirements for communication and the notices

to be issued by the Distributor to Users and the notices to be
issued by Users to the Distributor and other Users.

(d) To specify the maintenance programs for the Equipment and

facilities in the Distribution System;

(e) To describe the demand control strategies used for the control
of the System Frequency and the methods used for voltage
control;

(f) To specify the procedures to be followed by the Distributor

and Users during emergency conditions;

(g) To specify the procedures for the coordination, establishment,

maintenance, and cancellation of Safety Precautions when work or
testing other than System Test is to be carried out on the
Distribution System or the User System;

(h) To specify the procedures for testing and monitoring the

quality of power supplied to the Distribution System and the User
System;
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 94 -

(i) To establish a procedure for the conduct of System Tests which

involve the simulation of conditions or the controlled application of
unusual or extreme conditions that may have an impact on the
Distribution System or the User System;

(j) To identify the tests and the procedures that need to be

carried out to confirm the compliance of an Embedded Generating
Unit with its registered parameters and its ability to provide
Ancillary Services; and

(k) To specify the requirements for Site and Equipment

Identification at the Connection Point.

5.1.2 Scope of Application

This Section applies to the following:

(a) ZEDC;

(b) Other Distributors connected to the Distribution System;

(c) Embedded Generators (greater than or equal to one (1) MVA

output);

(d) Large Customers; and

(e) Other Users .

5.2 OPERATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

5.2.1 Operational Responsibilities of the Distributor

[Link] The Distributor shall be responsible for operating and maintaining

Power Quality in the Distribution System during normal conditions,
in accordance with the provision of Section 3.2, and in proposing
solutions to Power Quality problems.

[Link] The Distributor is responsible for preparing the Distribution

Maintenance Program for the maintenance of its Equipment and
facilities.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 95 -

[Link] The Distributor is responsible for providing and maintaining all

Distribution Equipment and facilities.

[Link] The Distributor is responsible for designing, installing, and

maintaining a distribution protection that will ensure the timely
disconnection of faulted facilities and Equipment.

[Link] The Distributor is responsible for ensuring that safe and economic
distribution operating procedures are always followed.

[Link] The Distributor is responsible for maintaining an Automatic Load

Dropping scheme, as necessary, to meet the targets agreed to with
the System Operator.

5.2.2 Operational Responsibilities of Embedded Generators

[Link] The Embedded Generator is responsible for ensuring that its

Generating Units can deliver the capabilities declared in its
Connection Agreement or Amended Connection Agreement.

[Link] The Embedded Generator is responsible for providing accurate

and timely planning and operations data to the Distributor.

[Link] The Embedded Generator is responsible for executing the

instructions of the Distributor during emergency conditions.

5.2.3 Operational Responsibilities of Other Distribution Users

[Link] The Customer is responsible for assisting the Distributor in

maintaining Power Quality in the Distribution System during normal
conditions by correcting any Customer facility that causes Power
Quality problems.

[Link] The Customer shall be responsible for ensuring that its System
will not cause any degradation of the Distribution System. It shall
also be responsible in undertaking all necessary measures to
remedy any degradation that the User System has caused to the
Distribution System.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 96 -

[Link] The User is responsible for executing the instructions of the

Distributor during emergency conditions.

5.3 OPERATIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

5.3.1 Mutual Assistance

[Link] The Distribution Code Review Panel shall recommend

Emergency procedures to ZERC and the Distributors, including the
development of a mutual assistance program for Distributors.

[Link] The Distributors shall cooperate in the establishment of mutual

assistance procedures and in providing coordinated responses
during emergencies.

5.4 DISTRIBUTION OPERATIONS COMMUNICATIONS, NOTICES,

AND REPORTS

5.4.1 Distribution Operations Communications

[Link] The Distributor and the Customer shall establish a communication

channel for the exchange of information required for distribution
operation. The communication channel shall, as much as possible, be
direct between the Distributor and the Customer .

[Link] If the Distributor decides that a back up or alternative route of

communication and/or emergency communication is necessary for
the safe operation of the Distribution System, the additional
means of communication shall be agreed between the Distributor
and the Customer .
[Link] A list of Accountable Managers and their telephone numbers shall
be exchanged between the Distributor and the Customer so that
control activities can be efficiently coordinated. The Distributor
and the User shall maintain 24- hour availability for these
Accountable Managers personnel when necessary.

5.4.2 Distribution Operations Notices

[Link] A Significant Incident Notice shall be issued by ZEDC or any User

if a Significant Incident has transpired on the Distribution System
or the System of the User, as the case may be. The notice shall be
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 97 -

issued within 15 minutes from the occurrence of the Significant

Incident, and shall identify its possible consequences on the
Distribution System and/or the System of other customers and
any initial corrective measures that were undertaken by the
Distributor or the User, as the case may be.

[Link] A Planned Activity Notice shall be issued by a customer to the

Distributor for any planned activity such as a planned Shutdown or
Scheduled Maintenance of its Equipment at least three (3) days
prior to the actual Shutdown or maintenance.

5.4.3 Distribution Operations Reports

[Link] The Distributor shall prepare and submit to ZERC monthly reports
on distribution operation. These reports shall include an evaluation
of the Events and other problems that occurred within the
Distribution System for the previous month, the measures
undertaken by the Distributor to address them, and the
recommendations to prevent their recurrence in the future.

[Link] The Distributor shall submit to ZERC the Significant Incident

Reports prepared pursuant to the provisions of Section 5.7.2.

[Link] The Distributor shall prepare and submit to ZERC an annual

operations report. This report shall include the Significant
Incidents on the Distribution System that had a Material Effect
on the Distribution System or the System of any User.

5.5 DISTRIBUTION MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

5.5.1 Preparation of Maintenance Program

[Link] The Distributor shall prepare the following Distribution

Maintenance Programs based on forecasted Demand, User’s
provisional Maintenance Program, and requests for maintenance
schedule:

(a) Three-Year Maintenance Program;

(b) Annual Maintenance Program; and

Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 98 -

(c) Monthly Maintenance Program;

[Link] The three-year Maintenance Program shall be prepared annually

for the three (3) succeeding years. The annual Maintenance
Program shall be developed based on the maintenance schedule for
the first year of the three year Maintenance Program. The monthly
Maintenance Program shall provide the details required by the
System Operator for the preparation of the Grid Operating
Program, as specified in the Zimbabwe Grid Code.

[Link] The Distribution Maintenance Program shall be developed taking

into account the following:

(a) The forecasted Demand;

(b) The Maintenance Program actually implemented;

(c) The requests by Users for changes in their maintenance

schedules;

(d) The requirements for the maintenance of the Distribution

System;

(e) The need to minimize the total cost of the required

maintenance; and

(f) Any other relevant factor.

5.5.2 Submission and Approval of Maintenance Program

[Link] The User shall provide the Distributor during the current year a
provisional Maintenance Program for the three (3) succeeding
years. The following information shall be included in the User’s
provisional Maintenance Program or when the User requests for a
maintenance schedule for its System or Equipment:

(a) Identification of the Equipment and the MW capacity involved;

(b) Reasons for the maintenance;

(c) Expected duration of the maintenance work;

Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 99 -

(d) Preferred start date for the maintenance work and the date by
which the work shall have been completed; and

(e) If there is flexibility in dates, the earliest start date and the
latest completion date.

[Link] The Maintenance Program submitted by the Embedded Generator

for its Scheduled Generating Units shall be submitted by the
Distributor to the Grid Owner by week 27 pursuant to the
requirement of the Zimbabwe Grid Code.

[Link] The Distributor shall endeavour to accommodate the User’s

request for maintenance schedule at particular dates in preparing
the Distribution Maintenance Program.

[Link] The Distributor shall provide the User a written copy of the
User’s approved Maintenance Program.

[Link] If the User is not satisfied with the Maintenance Schedule

allocated to its Equipment, it shall notify the Distributor to explain
its concern and to propose changes in the Maintenance Program.
The Distributor and the User shall discuss and resolve the
problem. The Maintenance Program shall be revised by the
Distributor based on the resolution of the Customer’s concerns.

5.6 DEMAND AND VOLTAGE CONTROL

5.6.1 Demand Control Coordination

[Link] The Distributor shall implement Demand Control when the System
Operator has issued a Red Alert notice due to a generation
deficiency in the Grid or when a Multiple Outage Contingency
resulted in Island Grid operation.

[Link] The Demand Control to be implemented by the Distributor shall

include the following:
(a) Automatic Load Dropping;
(b) Manual Load Dropping;
(c) Demand Disconnection initiated by Users; and
(d) Voluntary Load Curtailment.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 100 -

[Link] If the System Operator has issued an instruction to implement

Demand Control for the Security of the Grid, the Distributor shall
promptly implement the instruction of the System Operator.

[Link] If the Demand Control is to be undertaken by the Distributor to

safeguard its Distribution System, the Distributor shall coordinate
the Demand Control with the affected Users.

[Link] The Distributor shall abide by the instruction of the System

Operator with regard to the restoration of Demand. The
restoration of Demand shall be achieved as soon as possible and
the process of restoration shall begin within two (2) minutes after
the instruction is given by the System Operator.

[Link] If a User is disconnected due to Demand Control, the User shall

not reconnect its System until instructed by the Distributor to do
so.

5.6.2 Automatic Load Dropping

[Link] The System Operator shall establish the level of Demand required
for Automatic Load Dropping in order to limit the consequences of
a major loss of generation in the Distribution System. The System
Operator shall conduct the appropriate technical studies to justify
the targets and/or to refine them as necessary.

[Link] The Distributor shall prepare its ALD program in consultation with
the System Operator. The Distributor’s Demand that is subject to
ALD shall be split into rotating discrete MW blocks. The System
Operator shall specify the number of blocks and the under
frequency setting for each block.

[Link] The under frequency Disconnection scheme shall be designed to

allow the Demand Reduction to be uniformly applied throughout the
Distribution System, taking into account any operational
requirements and essential loads.

[Link] To ensure that a subsequent fall in frequency will be contained by

the operation of ALD, additional Manual Load Dropping shall be
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 101 -

implemented by the Distributor so that the loads that were

dropped by ALD can be reconnected.

[Link] The Distributor shall exert best effort to restore immediately

the critical facilities included in the ALD program.

[Link] If an ALD has taken place, the affected User shall not reconnect
its disconnected feeder without clearance from the Distributor.
The Distributor shall issue the order to reconnect upon instruction
by the System Operator.

5.6.3 Manual Load Dropping

[Link] The Distributor shall make arrangements that will enable it to

disconnect its Customers immediately following the issuance by the
System Operator of an instruction to implement Manual Load
Dropping.

[Link] The Distributors shall, in consultation with the System Operator,

establish a priority scheme for Manual Load Dropping based on
equitable load allocation.

[Link] If the Distributor disconnected a User System, the User shall not
reconnect its System until instructed by the Distributor to do so.

5.6.4 Demand Control Initiated by a User

[Link] If a User intends to implement for the following day Demand

Control through a Demand Disconnection at the Connection Point, it
shall notify the Distributor of the hourly schedule before 0830
hours of the current day. The notification shall contain the
following information:
(a) The proposed (in the case of prior notification) and actual (in
subsequent notification) date, time, and duration of
implementation of the Demand Disconnection; and
(b) The magnitude of the proposed reduction by the use of Demand
Disconnection.

[Link] If the Demand Control involves the disconnection of an industrial

circuit, Voluntary Load Curtailment (VLC) or any similar scheme
shall be implemented wherein the Customers are divided into VLC
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 102 -

Weekday groups (e.g. Monday Group, Tuesday Group, etc.).

Customers participating in the VLC shall voluntarily reduce their
respective Loads for a certain period of time depending on the
extent of the generation deficiency. Industrial Customers who
implemented a VLC shall provide the Distributor with the amount
of Demand reduction actually achieved through the VLC scheme.

5.6.5 Voltage Control

The control of voltage can be achieved by managing the Reactive
Power supply in the Distribution System. This shall include the
operation of the following Equipment:
(a) Synchronous Generating Units;
(b) Synchronous condensers;
(c) Static VAR compensators;
(d) Shunt capacitors and reactors; and
(e) On-Load tap changing transformers.

5.7 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

5.7.1 Preparation for Distribution Emergencies

[Link] The Distributor shall issue a directive to any User for the purpose
of mitigating the effects of the disruption of electricity supply
attributable to any of the following:

(a) Natural disaster;

(b) Civil disturbance; or

(c) Fortuitous event.

[Link] The User shall provide the Distributor, in writing, the telephone
numbers of persons who can make binding decisions when there is a
Significant Incident.

[Link] The Distributor shall develop and maintain a Manual of

Distribution Emergency Procedures, which lists all parties to be
notified, including their business and home phone numbers, in case
of an emergency.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 103 -

[Link] Emergency drills shall be conducted at least once a year to

familiarize all personnel responsible for emergencies. The drills
shall simulate realistic emergency situations. A drill evaluation shall
be performed and deficiencies in procedures and responses shall be
identified and corrected.

[Link] The User shall participate in all emergency drills organized by the
Distributor.

5.7.2 Significant Incident Procedures

[Link] Following the issuance of a Significant Incident Notice by the

Distributor or a User, any User may file a written request to the
Distributor for a joint investigation of the Significant Incident. If
there have been several Significant Incidents, the joint
investigation may include the other Significant Incidents.

[Link] A joint investigation of the Significant Incident shall be

conducted only when the Distributor and the Users have reached
an agreement to conduct the joint investigation.

[Link] The Distributor shall submit a written report to ZERC

detailing all the information, findings, and recommendations the
Significant Incident.

[Link] The following minimum information shall be included in the written

report following the joint investigation of the Significant Incident:
(a) Time and date of the Significant Incident;
(b) Location of the Significant Incident;
(c) Equipment directly involved and not merely affected by the
Event;
(d) Description of the Significant Incident; and Demand (in MW)
and generation (in MW) interrupted and the duration of the
Interruption.

5.7.3 Operation of Embedded Generating Unit in Island Grid

[Link] If a part of the Distribution System to which an Embedded

Generating Unit is connected becomes isolated from the
Distribution System, the Distributor shall decide if it is desirable
for the Embedded Generating Unit to continue operating.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 104 -

[Link] If no facilities exist for the subsequent resynchronization with

the rest of the Distribution System, the Distributor shall issue an
instruction to the Embedded Generator to disconnect its
Embedded Generating Unit is so that the Island Grid may be
reconnected to the rest of the Distribution System.

5.7.4 Black Start and Resynchronization Procedures

[Link] If a Significant Incident resulted in a Total System Blackout or a

Partial System Blackout and the isolated Distribution System has
Embedded Generating Units with Black Start Capability, the
Distributor shall initiate a Black Start procedure upon instruction
by the System Operator.

[Link] The System Operator, pursuant to the procedures in the

Zimbabwe Grid Code, shall be responsible in the resynchronization
of the Island Grids after the Black Start procedure or after a
Significant Incident has resulted in Island Grid operation.

5.8 SAFETY COORDINATION

5.8.1 Safety Coordination Procedures

[Link] The Distributor and the User shall adopt and use a set of Safety
Rules and Local Safety Instructions for implementing Safety
Precautions on MV and HV Equipment. The respective Safety Rules
and Local Safety Instructions of the Distributor and the User shall
govern any work or testing on the Distribution System or the User
System.

[Link] The Distributor shall furnish the User a copy of its Safety Rules
and Local Safety Instructions relating to the Safety Precautions
on its MV and HV Equipment.

[Link] The User shall furnish the Distributor a copy of its Safety Rules
and Local Safety Instructions relating to the Safety Precautions
on its MV and HV Equipment.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 105 -

[Link] Any party who wants to revise any provision of its Local Safety
Instructions shall provide the other party a written copy of the
revisions.

[Link] Safety coordination procedures shall be established for the

coordination, establishment, maintenance, and cancellation of
Safety Precautions on MV and HV Equipment when work or testing
is to be carried out on the Distribution System or the User
System.

[Link] Work or testing on any Equipment at the Connection Point shall be

carried out only in the presence of the representatives of the
Distributor and the User.

[Link] The User (or the Distributor) shall seek authority from the
Distributor (or the User) if it wishes to access any Distributor’s
(or User’s) Equipment.

[Link] If work or testing is to be carried out on the Distribution System

and a Safety Precaution is required on the MV and HV Equipment
of several Users, the Distributor shall ensure that the Safety
Precautions on the Distribution System and on the System of all
Users involved are coordinated and implemented.

[Link] If work or testing is to be carried out on the Distribution System

and a User becomes aware that Safety Precautions are also
required on the System of other Users, the Distributor shall be
promptly informed of the required Safety Precautions on the
System of the other Users. The Distributor shall ensure that
Safety Precautions are coordinated and implemented on the
Distribution System and the Systems of the affected Users.

5.8.2 Safety Coordinator

[Link] The Distributor and the User shall assign a Safety Coordinator
who shall be responsible for the coordination of Safety Precautions
on the MV and HV Equipment at their respective sides of the
Connection Point. Any party who wants to change its Safety
Coordinator shall notify the other party of the change.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 106 -

[Link] For purposes of safety coordination, the Safety Coordinator

requesting that a Safety Precaution be applied on the System of
the other party shall be referred to as the Requesting Safety
Coordinator while the Safety Coordinator that will implement the
requested Safety Precaution shall be referred to as the
Implementing Safety Coordinator.

[Link] If work or testing is to be carried out on the Distribution System

(or the User System) that requires Safety Precautions on the MV
and HV Equipment of the User System (or the Distribution
System), the Requesting Safety Coordinator shall contact the
Implementing Safety Coordinator to coordinate the necessary
Safety Precautions.

[Link] If a Safety Precaution is required for the MV and HV Equipment

of other Users who were not mentioned in the request, the
Implementing Safety Coordinator shall promptly inform the
Requesting Safety Coordinator.

[Link] If a Safety Precaution becomes ineffective, the concerned

Safety Coordinator shall inform the other Safety Coordinators
about it without delay stating the reasons why the Safety
Precaution has lost its integrity.

5.8.3 Safety Logs and Record of Inter-System Safety Precautions

[Link] The Distributor and the User shall maintain Safety Logs to
record, in chronological order, all messages relating to Safety
Coordination. The Safety Logs shall be retained for at least one (1)
year.

[Link] The Distributor shall establish a record of inter-system Safety

Precautions to be used by the Requesting Safety Coordinator and
the Implementing Safety Coordinator in coordinating the Safety
Precautions on MV and HV Equipment. The record of intersystem
Safety Precautions shall contain the following information:
(a) Site and Equipment Identification of MV or HV Equipment
where the Safety Precaution is to be established or has been
established;
(b) Location and the means of implementation of the Safety
Precaution;
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 107 -

(c) Confirmation of the Safety Coordinator that the Safety

Precaution has been established; and
(d) Confirmation of the Safety Coordinator that the Safety
Precaution is no longer needed and has been cancelled.

5.8.4 Location of Safety Precautions

[Link] When work or testing is to be carried out on the Distribution

System (or the User System) and Safety Precautions are required
on the User System (or the Distribution System), the Requesting
Safety coordinator shall contact the concerned Implementing
Safety Coordinator to agree on the locations at which the Safety
Precautions will be implemented or applied. The Requesting safety
Coordinator shall specify the proposed locations at which Isolation
and/or Grounding are to be established.

[Link] In the case of Isolation, the Implementing Safety Coordinator

shall promptly notify the Requesting safety Coordinator of the
following:
(a) The Identification of each Point of Isolation using the Site and
Equipment Identification specified in Article 4.12; and
(b) The means of implementing Isolation as specified in Section
5.8.5.

[Link] In the case of Grounding, the Implementing Safety Coordinator

shall promptly notify the Requesting safety Coordinator of the
following:
(a) The Identification of each Point of Grounding using the Site
and Equipment Identification specified in Section 5.12; and
(b) The means of implementing Grounding as specified in Section
5.8.5.

[Link] If the Requesting safety Coordinator and the Implementing

Safety Coordinator do not agree on the location, Grounding shall be
established at the available point on the infeed closest to the MV
and HV Equipment.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 108 -

5.8.5 Implementation of Safety Precautions

[Link] Once the locations of Isolation and Grounding have been agreed
upon, the Implementing Safety Coordinator shall ensure that the
Isolation is implemented.

[Link] The Isolation shall be implemented by any of the following:

(a) A disconnect switch that is secured in an open position by a lock
and affixing a caution Notice to it or by such other method in
accordance with the Local Safety Instructions of the Distributor
or of the User, as the case may be; or
(b) An adequate physical separation in accordance with the Local
Safety Rules of the Distributor or of the User. In addition, a
Safety Notice shall be placed at the switching points.

[Link] The Implementing Safety Coordinator, after the required

Isolation in all locations had been established on his System, shall
notify the Requesting Safety Coordinator that the required
Isolation has been implemented.

[Link] After the confirmation of Isolation, the Requesting Safety

Coordinator shall inform the former of the establishment of
relevant Isolation, if any, on his System and request, if required,
the implementation of Grounding.

[Link] The Implementing Safety Coordinator shall ensure the

implementation of Grounding and notify the Requesting Safety
Coordinator that Grounding has been established on his System.

[Link] Grounding shall be implemented by any of the following:

(a) A Grounding switch secured in a closed position by a lock and
affixing a Caution Notice to it or by such other method in
accordance with the Local Safety Instructions of the Distributor
or of the User, as the case may be; or
(b) An adequate physical connection (e.g. Grounding Cluster) which
is in accordance with the methods set out in the Local Safety
Instructions of the Distributor or those of the User. In addition, a
safety tag shall be placed at the point of connection and all related
switching points.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 109 -

[Link] If the disconnect switch or the grounding switch is locked with its
own locking mechanism or with a padlock, the key shall be secured
in a key cabinet.

5.8.6 Authorization of Testing

If the Requesting Safety Coordinator wishes to authorize a test on
MV or HV Equipment, he shall only do so after the following
procedure has been implemented:
(a) Confirmation is obtained from the Implementing Safety
Coordinator that no person is working on or testing, or has been
authorized to work on or test, any part of his System within the
Points of Isolation identified , Precautions other than the current
Safety Precautions have been cancelled; and
(c) The Implementing Safety Coordinator agrees with him on the
conduct of testing in that part of the System.

5.8.7 Cancellation of Safety Precautions

[Link] When the Requesting Safety Coordinator decides that Safety

Precautions are no longer required, he shall contact the
Implementing Safety Coordinator and inform him that the Safety
Precautions are no longer required.
[Link] Both shall then cancel the Safety Precautions.

5.9 DISTRIBUTION TESTING AND MONITORING

5.9.1 Testing Requirements

[Link] The Distributor shall, from time to time, determine the need to
test and/or monitor the Power Quality at various points on its
Distribution System.

[Link] The requirement for specific testing and/or monitoring by a

Distributor shall be initiated by the receipt of a complaint relating
to Power Quality in the Distribution System.

[Link] In certain situations, the Distributor may require the testing

and/or monitoring to take place at the Connection Point of a User
to be witnessed by a User representative.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 110 -

[Link] If testing and/or monitoring is required at the Connection Point,

the Distributors shall advise the User involved and shall make
available the results of such tests to the User.

[Link] Upon the request of the User, a retest shall be carried out. The
cost of the retest shall be charged to the User.

[Link] If the results of the test show that the User is operating outside
the technical parameters specified in Sections 5.2.5, 5.2.6, and
5.2.7, the User shall be informed accordingly. The User shall
rectify the situation within a period time as agreed upon with the
Distributor.

[Link] If the User failed to rectify the situation, the Distributor may
disconnect the User from the Distribution System, in accordance
with the Connection Agreement or Amended Connection
Agreement.

5.9.2 Monitoring of User Effect on the Distribution System

[Link] The Distributor shall, from time to time, monitor the effect of
the User System on the Distribution System.

[Link] The monitoring shall normally be related to the amount of Active

Power and Reactive Power transferred across the Connection Point.

[Link] If the User is exporting (or importing) from the Distribution

System a Demand in excess of the value specified in the
Connection Agreement or Amended Connection Agreement, the
Distributors shall inform the User. Upon the request of the User,
the Distributor shall demonstrate the results of such monitoring.

[Link] The User may request technical information on the method of

monitoring and, if necessary, request another method that is
acceptable to the Distributor.

[Link] If the User is operating outside the limits specified in Sections

3.2.5, 3.2.6, and 3.2.7, the User shall immediately restrict the
Demand transfer to within the value specified in the Connection
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 111 -

Agreement or Amended Connection Agreement. The restriction

shall be in effect until a new Amended Connection Agreement is
signed and the necessary changes in the Connection Points are
undertaken.

[Link] If the User’s Demand is in excess of the rated capacity of the

Connection Point, the User shall limit the Demand transfer to the
value specified in the Connection Agreement or Amended
Connection Agreement.

5.10 SYSTEM TEST

5.10.1 System Test Requirements

[Link] System Test, which involves the simulation of conditions or the

controlled application of unusual or extreme conditions that may
have an Impact on the Distribution System or the User System,
shall be carried out in a manner that shall not endanger any
personnel or the general public.

[Link] The possibility of damage to Equipment, the Distribution System,

and the System of the Users shall be minimized when undertaking a
System Test on the Distribution System or the User System.

[Link] Where the System Test may have an impact on the Grid, the
procedure specified in the Zimbabwe Grid Code shall be used in
carrying out the proposed System Test.

5.10.2 System Test Request

[Link] If a User wishes to undertake a System Test on its System, it

shall submit to the Distributor a System Test Request that
contains the following:
(a) The purpose and nature of the proposed System Test;
(b) The extent and condition of the Equipment involved; and
(c) A proposed System Test Procedure specifying the switching
sequence and the timing of the switching sequence.

[Link] The System Test Proponent shall provide sufficient time for the
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 112 -

Distributor to plan the proposed System Test. The Distributor

shall determine the time required for each type of System Test.

[Link] The Distributor may require additional information before

approving the proposed System Test if the information contained
in the System Test Request is insufficient or the proposed System
Test Procedure cannot ensure the safety of personnel and
Reliability of the Distribution System.

[Link] The Distributor shall determine and notify other Users, other
than the System Test Proponent, that may be affected by the
proposed System Test.

[Link] The Distributor may also initiate a System Test if it has

determined that the System Test is necessary to ensure the
safety and Reliability of the Distribution System.

5.10.3 System Test Group

[Link] If the Distributor is the System Test Proponent, it shall notify

all affected Users of the proposed System Test. If the
Distributor is not the System Test Proponent, it shall notify, within
one (1) month after the acceptance of a System Test Request, the
System Test Proponent and the affected Users of the proposed
System Test. The notice shall contain the following:
and nature of the proposed System Test, the extent and
condition of the Equipment involved, the identity of the System
Test Proponent, and the affected Users;
(b) An invitation to nominate representatives for the System Test
Group to be established to coordinate the proposed System Test;
and
(c) If the System Test involves work or testing on MV and HV Equipment,
the Safety Coordinators and the safety procedure specified in
Article 5.7.8.

[Link] The Distributor, the System Test Proponent (if it is not the
Distributor) and the affected Users shall nominate their
representatives to the System Test Group within one (1) month
after receipt of the notice from the Distributor.
The Distributor may decide to proceed with the proposed System
Test even if the affected Users fail to reply within that period.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 113 -

[Link] The Distributor shall establish a System Test Group and appoint
a System Test Coordinator, who shall act as chairman of the
System Test
Group. The System Test Coordinator may come from the
Distributor or the System Test Proponent.

[Link] The members of the System Test Group shall meet within one (1)
month after the Test Group is established. The System Test
Coordinator shall convene the System Test Group as often as
necessary.

[Link] The agenda for the meeting of the System Test Group shall
include the following:
(a) The details of the purpose and nature of the proposed System
Test and other matters included in the System Test Request;
(b) Evaluation of the System Test Procedure as submitted by the
System Test Proponent and making the necessary modifications to
come up with the final System Test Procedure;
(c) The possibility of scheduling simultaneously the proposed
System Testwith any other test and with Equipment Maintenance
which may arise pursuant to the Maintenance Program
requirements of the Distribution System or the System of the
Users; and
(d) The economic, operational, and risk implications of the proposed
System Test on the Distribution System, the System of the other
Users, and the Scheduling and Dispatch of the Embedded
Generating Plants.

[Link] The Distributor, the System Test Proponent (if it is not the
Distributor) and the affected Users (including those which are not
represented in the System Test Group) shall provide the System
Test Group, upon request, with such details as the System Test
Group reasonably requires to carry out the proposed System Test.

5.10.4 System Test Program

[Link] Within two (2) months after the first meeting and at least one
(1) month prior to the date of the proposed System Test, the
System Test Group shall submit to the Distributor, the System
Test Proponent (if it is not the Distributor), and the affected
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 114 -

Users a proposed System Test Program which shall contain the

following:
(a) Plan for carrying out the System Test;
(b) System Test Procedure to be followed during the test including
the manner in which the System Test is to be monitored;
(c) List of responsible persons, including Safety Coordinators when
necessary, who will be involved in carrying out the System Test;
(d) An allocation of the testing cost among the affected parties;
and
(e) Such other matters as the System Test Group may deem
appropriate and necessary and are approved by the management of
the affected parties.

[Link] If the proposed System Test Program is acceptable to the

Distributor, the System Test Proponent, and the affected Users,
the final System Test Program shall be constituted and the System
Test shall proceed accordingly. Otherwise, the System Test Group
shall revise the System Test Program.

[Link] If the System Test Group is unable to develop a System Test

Program or reach a decision in implementing the System Test
Program, the Distributor shall determine whether it is necessary
to proceed with the System Test to ensure the safety and
Reliability of the Distribution System.

[Link] The System Test Coordinator shall be notified in writing, as soon

as possible, of any proposed revision or amendment to the System
Test Program prior to the day of the proposed System Test. If the
System Test Coordinator decides that the proposed revision or
amendment is meritorious, he shall notify the Distributor, the
System Test Proponent and the affected Users to act accordingly
for the inclusion thereof. The System Test Program shall then be
carried out with the revisions or amendments if the System Test
Coordinator received no objections.

[Link] If System conditions are abnormal during the scheduled day for
the System Test, the System Test Coordinator may recommend a
postponement of the System Test.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 115 -

5.10.5 System Test Report

[Link] Within two (2) months or a shorter period as the System Test
Group may agree after the conclusion of the System Test, the
System Test Proponent shall prepare and submit a System Test
Report to the Distributor, the affected Users, and the members
of the System Test Group.

[Link] After the submission of System Test Report, the System Test
Group shall be automatically dissolved.

[Link] The Distributor shall submit the System Test Report to the
ZERC for its review and recommendations.

5.11 EMBEDDED GENERATING UNIT CAPABILITY TESTS

5.11.1 Test Requirements

[Link] Tests shall be conducted, in accordance with the agreed

procedures and standards, to confirm the compliance of Embedded
Generating Units for the following:
(a) Capability of Generating Units to operate within their
registered Generation parameters;
(b) Capability of the Generating Units to meet the applicable
requirements of the Zimbabwe Grid Code and the Distribution
Code;
(c) Capability to deliver the Ancillary Services that the Generator
had agreed to provide; and
(d) Availability of Generating Units in accordance with their
capability declaration.

[Link] All tests shall be recorded and witnessed by the authorized

representatives of the Distributor, Generator, and/or User.

[Link] The Generator shall demonstrate to the Distributor the

reliability and accuracy of the test instruments and Equipment to
be used in the test.

[Link] The Distributor may at any time issue instructions requiring tests
to be carried out on any Embedded Generating Unit. All tests shall
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 116 -

be of sufficient duration and shall be conducted no more than

twice a year except when there are reasonable grounds to justify
the necessity for further tests.

[Link] If an Embedded Generating Unit fails the test, the Generator

shall correct the deficiency within an agreed period to attain the
relevant registered parameters for that Embedded Generating
Unit.

[Link] Once the Generator achieves the registered parameters of its

Embedded Generating Unit that previously failed the test, it shall
immediately notify the Distributor. The Distributor shall then
require the Generator to conduct a retest in order to demonstrate
that the appropriate parameter has already been restored to its
registered value.

[Link] If a dispute arises relating to the failure of an Embedded

Generating Unit to pass a given test, the Distributor, the
Generator, and/or User shall seek to resolve the dispute among
themselves.

[Link] If the dispute cannot be resolved, one of the parties may submit
the issue to ZERC.

5.11.2 Tests to be Performed

[Link] The Reactive Power test shall demonstrate that the Embedded
Generating Unit meets the registered Reactive Power Capability
requirements specified in Section 2.4.2. The Embedded Generating
Unit shall pass the test if the measured values are within ±5
percent of the Capability as registered with the Grid Owner
through the Distributor.

[Link] The Fast Start capability test shall demonstrate that the
Embedded Generating Unit has the capability to automatically
Start-Up, synchronize with the Grid through the Distribution
System and be loaded up to its offered capability, as specified in
Section 2.4.8. The Embedded Generating Unit shall pass the test if
it meets the Fast Start capability requirements.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 117 -

[Link] The Black Start test shall demonstrate that the Embedded
Generating Plant with Black Start capability can implement a Black
Start procedure, as specified in Section 2.4.7. To pass the test,
the Embedded Generating Unit shall start on its own, synchronize
with the Grid through the Distribution System and carry load
without the need for external power supply.

[Link] The Declared Data capability test shall demonstrate that the
Embedded Generating Unit can be scheduled and dispatched in
accordance with the Declared Data. To pass the test, the
Embedded Generating Unit shall satisfy the ability to achieve the
Declared Data.

[Link] The Dispatch accuracy test shall demonstrate that the

Embedded Generating Unit meets the relevant Generation
Scheduling and Dispatch Parameters. The Embedded Generating
Unit shall pass the test if:
(a) In the case of synchronization, the process is achieved within
±5 minutes of the registered synchronization time;
(b) In the case of synchronizing generation (if registered as a
Generation Scheduling and Dispatch Parameters), the synchronizing
generation achieved is within an error level equivalent to 2.5% of
Net Declared Capacity;
(c) In the case of meeting ramp rates, the actual ramp rate is
within ±10% of the registered ramp rate;
(d) In the case of meeting Load reduction rates, the actual Load
reduction rate is within ±10% of the registered Load reduction
rate; and
(e) In the case of all other Generation Scheduling and Dispatch
Parameters, values are within ±1.5% of the declared values.

[Link] The Ancillary Services acceptability test shall determine the

committed services in terms of parameter quantity or volume,
timeliness, and other operational requirements. Generators
providing Ancillary Services shall conduct the test or define the
committed service. However, monitoring by the System Operator
or the Distributor of the Ancillary Services performance in
response to System-derived inputs shall also be carried out.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 118 -

5.12 SITE AND EQUIPMENT IDENTIFICATION

5.12.1 Site and Equipment Identification Requirements

[Link] The Distributor shall develop and establish a standard system for
Site and Equipment Identification to be used in identifying any
Site or Equipment in all Electrical Diagrams, Connection Point
Drawings, distribution operation instructions, notices, and other
documents.

[Link] The identification for the Site shall include and be unique for
each substation and switchyard where a Connection Point is located.

[Link] The identification for Equipment shall be unique for each

transformer, distribution line, bus, circuit breaker, disconnect
switch, grounding switch, capacitor bank, reactor, lightning
arrester, CCPD, and other MV and HV Equipment at the Connection
Point.

5.12.2 Site and Equipment Identification Label

[Link] The Distributor shall develop and establish a standard labelling

system, which specifies the dimension, sizes of characters, and
colours of labels, to identify the Sites and Equipment.

[Link] The Distributor or the User shall be responsible for the

provision and installation of a clear and unambiguous label showing
the Site and Equipment Identification at their respective System.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 119 -

SECTION 6

6 DISTRIBUTION METERING CODE

6.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

6.1.1 Purpose
(a) To establish the requirements for metering the Active and Reactive
Energy and Demand input to and/or output from the Distribution System;
(b) To ensure appropriate procedures for providing metering data for
billing and settlement; and

(c)To ensure that a dispute settlement process is established and to

quickly and satisfactorily resolve any billing and payment dispute.
(d)To provide information for planning and management decision-making.

6.1.2 Scope of Application

This section applies to all Distribution System Participants including:
(a) ZEDC;
(b) Other Distributors connected to the Distribution System;
(c) Embedded Generators;
(d) Large Customers; and
(e) Other Users .

6.1.3 Provision of Metering Systems

[Link] A distributor shall provide, install and maintain a meter

installation for retail billing and settlement purposes for each
customer connected to its distribution system.

[Link] The distributor shall install maximum demand metering (kVA)

for customers with an installed capacity greater than 200kVA
The distributor shall provide a check meter to any customer
whose installed capacity is 5MVA and above, which shall be
connected through independent CTs, VTs and ancillary
equipment.
[Link] The distributor shall identify in its Conditions of Service the
types of meters that are available to a customer, the process
by which a customer may obtain such meter and the types of
charges that would be levied on a customer for each meter
type.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 120 -

[Link] At all times the distributor shall have its meters sealed at the
critical points i.e. Calibration point and Installation point.
[Link] At no time shall the customer tamper with the meter seals, as
this is an offence, which attracts prosecution under the Act.
[Link] The distributor shall install only calibrated date-stamped
meters and ancillary equipment. The standards used for
calibration shall be stated in the test certificates.

6.2 Provision of Metering Services

6.2.1 On request from a customer the distributor shall connect a check

meter or carry out in-situ tests to determine the accuracy of the
meter. The customer that requests check metering shall
compensate the distributor for all incremental costs associated
with that meter, or the cost of in -situ test. If it is a check meter,
which is installed, it shall be removed from circuit upon conclusion
of the matter and the period shall not exceed two calendar
months. If it is in-situ test the customer has a right to receive a
test certificate of the meter in question.
6.2.2 The distributor shall, for a fee, on a written request, provide
maximum demand customers with profile data on written request
for demand side management studies. The information shall not be
for third parties. Any energy consultants shall receive profile data
upon payment of a fee determined at the time of need.
6.2.3 The distributor shall have an inspection and maintenance program
for poly-phase metering installations and document the inspection
and results of the inspection.
6.2.4 The distributor shall provide metering services and exercise
appropriate diligence in detecting and acting upon instances of
tampering with metering and service entrance equipment. Upon
identification of possible meter tampering, the distributor shall
take appropriate action, which may lead to prosecution.
6.2.5 The distributor shall respond to customer metering disputes, and
shall establish a fair and reasonable charge for costs associated
with resolution of these disputes. If a complaint is substantiated,
the charge shall not be applied. In resolving a dispute, the
distributor may involve a mutually agreed arbitrator at any time
during the dispute resolution process.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 121 -

6.3 Metering requirements for embedded Generators

6.3.1 The distributor shall install a four-quadrant meter at the interface

with an embedded Generator.
6.3.2 The distributor shall require an embedded Generator connected to
the distribution system to install its own four-quadrant meter in
accordance with the distributor's metering requirements and to
provide the technical details of the metering installation.

6.3.3 Where an embedded Generator’s metering installation does not

conform to measurement standards, the distributor shall require
the embedded Generator to have the metering installation, tested
and apply an agreed measurement correction factor to meter
readings until conformance is achieved.

6.3.4 Where practical, metering for embedded Generators shall be

installed at the point of supply. If it is not practical to install the
meter at the point of supply, the distributor shall apply loss
factors to the generation output in accordance with the loss
factors applied for retail settlements and billing.

6.4 Metering Requirements At Bulk Supply (ZETCO) Interfaces

6.4.1 The distributor shall install a four-quadrant meter at each and

every interface with the Transmission Company (ZETCO).

6.4.2 The Transmission Company (ZETCO) may install a check meter and
the maintenance of such (check meter) equipment shall be the
responsibility of the Transmission Company (ZETCO).

6.4.3 The installed meter shall be synchronized with the distributor's

meter.
6.4.4 The installation of the meter shall be at the point of interface
practically but in any other case both parties shall agree upon the
position.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 122 -

6.5 Metering Data Manipulation

6.5.1 Metering data collected by the distributor shall be subjected to a

validating, estimating and editing (VEE) process if a customer has
queried the validity of the electricity bill.
6.5.2 The distributor shall establish a VEE process according to industry
practice and provide assurance that correct data is submitted to
the settlement process.
6.5.3 The distributor shall document and make available its VEE process
and criteria, and allow scrutiny of its process by customers,
retailers and the Zimbabwe Electricity Regulatory Commission
(ZERC).

6.6 METERING EQUIPMENT STANDARDS

6.6.1 Voltage Transformers

All voltage Transformers shall comply with the IEC Standards or
their equivalent national standards for metering and shall have an
accuracy class of 0.3 or better. The burden in each phase of the
voltage Transformer shall not exceed the specified burden of the
said voltage Transformer. It shall be connected only to a revenue
meter with a burden that will not affect the accuracy of the
measurement.

6.6.2 Current Transformers

All current Transformers shall comply with the IEC Standards or
their equivalent national standards for metering and shall have an
accuracy class of 0.3 or better. The burden in each phase of the
current Transformer shall not exceed the specified burden of the
said current Transformer. It shall be connected only to a revenue
meter with a burden that will not affect the accuracy of the
measurement. The current transformer's rated secondary current
shall be either 1 or 5 amperes. The neutral conductor shall be
effectively grounded at a single point.

6.6.3 Meters
The meter shall conform to the type of circuit of the
Distribution System where it is connected. The meter shall
measure and locally display the kW, kWh, kVAR, kVARh, and
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 123 -

cumulative demand with the optional features of time-of-use,

maintenance records, and pulse output.

6.6.4 A cumulative record of the parameters measured shall be

available on the meter. Bidirectional meters shall have two such
records available. If combined Active and Reactive Energy
meters are provided, then a separate record shall be provided
for each measured quantity and direction. For electronic
meters, the loss of auxiliary supply shall not erase these
records.

6.6.5 Pulse output shall be provided for each measured quantity. The
pulse output shall be from a three-wire terminal with pulse
duration of the range 40–80 milliseconds (preferably
selectable) and with selective pulse Frequency or rate. The
pulse output shall be galvanically isolated from the voltage and
current transformers being measured and from the auxiliary
supply input terminals.

6.7 Other Accessories

6.7.1 The metering Equipment shall be placed in a cubicle and shall

be secured with seals and lock to prevent unauthorized
interference with a provision for the register to be visible and
accessible for monitoring.

6.7.2 All wiring from the instrument transformers’ secondary

terminal box to the metering Equipment cubicle shall be placed
in a rigid conduit.

6.7.3 The Distributor shall seal all meters. All seals placed or
removed on metering System shall be recorded and the records
kept by the Distributor.

6.8 METERING EQUIPMENT TESTING AND MAINTENANCE

6.8.1 Instrument Transformer Testing

Test on the Instrument Transformers shall be conducted by the
Distributor during the Test and Commissioning stage . The tests
shall be carried out in accordance with the practices of the
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 124 -

Distributor or an agreed equivalent international standard or

guidelines approved by ZERC.

6.8.2 Meter Testing and Calibration

Test and calibration of meters shall be conducted by the
Distributor during the Test and Commissioning stage and as the
need arises. If both parties cannot agree on the accuracy of
the meter, ZERC shall act as arbiter.

6.8.3 Maintenance of Metering Equipment

The Distributor shall maintain all metering Equipment. The
Distributor shall keep all test results, maintenance programs,
and sealing records..

6.8.4 Traceability of Metering Standard

The Distributor shall ensure that all Equipment used in the
measurement of meter accuracy or in the establishment of
test condition for the determination of meter accuracy shall
be calibrated and traceable to the Standards Association of
Zimbabwe or to any reputable international standard body.
The traceability shall be carried out in accordance with the
guidelines approved by the ZERC.

6.9 METER READING AND METERING DATA

6.9.1 Meter Reading and Recording Responsibility

[Link] Meter reading and recording shall be done by the Distributor

and the records will be kept at the offices of the Distributor.
.

6.12 Collection, Processing, and Access to Metering Data

6.10.1 The collection and processing of metering data shall follow

the billing and settlement procedure and schedule of the
Distributor.

6.10.2 The Distributor shall download Meter data for billing and
settlement purposes.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 125 -

6.10.3 Validation and Substitution of Metering Data

[Link] The Distributor shall be responsible for the validation of

metering data on its System.

[Link] In principle, check-metering data if available, shall be used

to validate the metering data provided that the check-
metering Equipment conforms to the accuracy requirements
set forth by the Distributor.

[Link] If a check meter is not available or the metering data is

missing, then a substitute value shall be prepared by the
Distributor using the data validation and substitution
method approved by ZERC.

6.12 Storage and Availability of Metering Data

6.11.1 The Distributor shall be responsible for storing the metering

data for its energy services for five years. No alteration to
the metering data stored in the database shall be permitted.

6.11.2 User meter data is considered to be confidential and cannot

be released without the written consent of the User.

6.12 SETTLEMENT AUDIT PROCEDURES

6.12.1 Right to Request Settlement Audit

6.12.2 The Users have the right to request an audit related to its
account and the right to choose an independent third party
qualified to perform the audit. The Distributor shall cooperate
in the auditing process.

6.12.3 Allocation of Audit Cost

The requesting party is responsible for all outside auditor costs
unless the Distributor agrees to pay some or all of those costs.

6.12.4 Audit Result

The audit result shall be issued to the Distributor and the
Distributor shall issue a response to the audit report, including
any adjustment in account billing/payments proposed.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 126 -

6.12.5 Audit Appeal

If the User disagrees with the Distributor’s response to the
audit, that response can be appealed to ZERC.

6.13 SETTLEMENT DISPUTE RESOLUTION

6.13.1 Settlement Dispute Resolution Process—First Stage

If the Distributor and the User cannot resolve a
settlement dispute, both parties shall document their positions
and submit them to their direct supervisors. Those supervisors
shall attempt to resolve the dispute.

6.13.2 Settlement Dispute Resolution Process—Second Stage

If no resolution in the dispute is reached at the supervisors’
level, the Distributor’s position shall prevail. If the User
continues to disagree, the issue can, on the User’s request be
submitted to ZERC. ZERC shall meet with the parties and
attempt to reach an agreement between the parties. If
agreement is not reached the ZERC shall issue a decision that
shall be honoured by both parties.

6.13.3 Settlement Dispute Appeal Process

In rare cases where one party or the other believes that
significant error has been made in ZERC’s decision, that party can
appeal the decision to the High Court.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 127 -

SECTION 7

7 DISTRIBUTION PROTECTION CODE

7.1 Introduction

This Section specifies the minimum protection requirements as well

as typical settings, to ensure adequate performance of the
distribution system as experienced by the customers. ZEDC shall
at all times install and maintain protection installations that comply
with the principles and specifications of this Section.

7.2 Objective

The objective of this Protection Code is to define the minimum

protection requirements for any equipment connected to the
Distribution System. The objective of the Protection Code is to
define minimum protection requirements for any system or
equipment connected to the Distribution System. This is done in
order to:

• Ensure agreed power quality to customers

• Minimise damage to primary plant
• Prevent damage to healthy equipment that conducts fault
current during faults
• Restore supply over the remaining healthy network
• Sustain stability and integrity of the distribution System
• Limit safety hazard to the power utility personnel and the
public.

7.3 General Principles

Protection schemes are generally divided into:

• Equipment protection and
• System protection.

The main functions of equipment protection are to selectively

and rapidly detect and disconnect a fault on the protected
circuit. The main function of System protection is to respond to
a System condition as opposed to a System fault e.g. under
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 128 -

frequency, voltage slide, out of step or sub synchronous

resonance and undertake appropriate automatic actions to
maintain power network integrity.

The protection functions are considered adequate when the

protection relays perform correctly in terms of:

• Dependability
• Security
• Speed of operation
• Selectivity
• Sensitivity

All Distribution System users shall ensure correct and appropriate

settings of protection to achieve effective, removal of faulty
equipment within the clearance time specified in Section 7.6 of this
Distribution Code. Protection settings at the Connection Point shall
not be altered, or protection bypassed and/or disconnected
without consultation and agreement of ZEDC and the User. In the
case where protection is bypassed and/or disconnected, by
agreement, then the cause must be rectified and the protection
restored to normal condition as quickly as possible. If agreement
has not been reached the electrical equipment will be removed
from service forthwith.

ZERC shall monitor compliance to all matters covered by this

section of the Distribution Code and shall design and effect
appropriate penalties for enforcing compliance.

7.4 Protection Coordination at the Connection Point

ZEDC shall be responsible for co-ordination of protection at the

Connection Point and shall investigate any mal-function of
protection or other unsatisfactory protection issues at the
Connection Point.
Distribution System Users shall take prompt action to correct any
protection mal-function.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 129 -

7.5 Testing of Protection Equipment

ZEDC shall conduct periodic testing of equipment and systems to

ensure these are performing to the designed specifications.
Periodic tests must be performed within a period of two years.
Each Distribution System User is responsible for tests on own
equipment and test results shall be submitted to ZEDC. The tests
are to be done as per the test procedures detailed under this
Section of the Distribution Code and as specified from time to
time by ZEDC.

7.6 Fault Clearance Times

From a stability consideration the maximum fault clearance times

for faults on any Distribution System User’s system directly
connected to the Distribution System, or any faults on the
Distribution System itself, are as follows:

Allowable Maximum Clearance Times:

132 kV 160 milliseconds

66 kV 160 milliseconds
33 kV 200 milliseconds
22 kV 200 milliseconds
11 kV 200 milliseconds

Higher voltages have generally faster clearance times because of

the critical nature of such faults on the overall system. However,
appropriate discrimination should be observed when protection
settings are applied. Slower fault clearance times for faults on a
Distribution System Users system may be agreed to but only if, in
ZEDC’s opinion, system conditions allow this.

7.7 Generator Protection Requirements

All Generating Units and all associated electrical equipment of the

Generator connected to the Distribution System shall be protected
by adequate protection so that the Distribution System does not
suffer due to any disturbance originating from the Generating
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 130 -

Unit. The minimum protection for the generators shall constitute

the following:

Over current and Earth Fault

Differential Protection
Reverse power protection
Over voltage protection
Negative phase sequence
Field failure

7.8 Sub transmission (132kV and below) Lines

Sub Transmission feeders shall be protected by a single Distance

Protection. Sub Transmission lines protection shall consist of main
and back up protection. Main protection shall be a single Distance
Protection Relay consisting of three forward zones. The zones are
as per Section 7.8.1 of the Zimbabwe Grid Code. Back up shall be
provided by definite time and inverse definite minimum time
(IDMT) Over-Current and Earth Fault Relays. Short feeders
should be equipped with additional differential Relays to provide
more sensitive protection for high impedance faults. High-speed
auto re closing is deemed necessary for stability purposes.
However, most sub transmission lines are radial and less critical to
system stability. Sub Transmission lines therefore do not
necessarily need HSAR, unless specified by ZETCO. Three phase
delayed Auto Re Closing should therefore be employed on zone 1
faults on the sub transmission system for all faults.

7.9 Distribution Line Protection Requirements:

For the purposes of this Distribution Code, Distribution shall refer

to all Connection Points at 33kV and below. All 33 kV and 11 kV lines
at Connection points shall be provided with a minimum of Over
Current and Earth Fault protection with or without directional
features as given below.

7.10 Plain Radial Feeders:

Non-directional time lag Over Current and Earth Fault Relay with
suitable settings to obtain discrimination between adjacent relay
stations.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 131 -

7.10.1 Parallel Feeders/ Ring Feeders:

Directional time lag Over Current and Earth Fault Relays.

7.10.2 Long Feeders/Transformer Feeders

For long feeders (above 5 km) or transformer feeders, the Over

Current Relays should incorporate a high set instantaneous
element.

7.10.3 Transformer Protection Requirements:

7.11 Generating Station

All windings of Auto Transformers and power transformer of EHV

class shall be protected by differential and Balanced Earth Fault
(BEF)/ Restricted Earth Fault (REF) Relays. In addition there shall
be back up time lag Over Current and Earth Fault protection. For
transformers operating in parallel, Back up Over Current and Earth
Fault protection shall have a directional feature at the Connection
Point. Over Current Earth Fault Relays should incorporate a high
set instantaneous element. In addition to electrical protection, gas
operated relays, winding temperature protection and oil
temperature protection shall be provided.

7.11.1 Distribution system at Connection Point

For smaller transformers of HV class on the Distribution System

Differential Protection shall be provided for 10 MVA and above
along with back up time lag Over Current and Earth Fault
protection (with directional feature for parallel operations).
Transformers of 1.6 MVA and above and less than 10 MVA shall be
protected by time lag Over Current, Earth Fault and instantaneous
REF relays. In addition all transformers of 1.6 MVA and above shall
be provided with gas-operated relays, winding temperature and oil
temperature protection.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 132 -

7.11.2 Over voltage Protection

Over voltages in the system are caused by lightning surges,

switching surges and sudden load throw off. Over voltage surges
cause possible failure of insulation on transformers, motors and
other related electrical equipment.
They also cause possible flashovers on highly stressed points
external or internal of to equipment.

7.11.3 Protection against Lightning Over voltages

This shall be achieved through the following;

7.11.4 Rod Gaps

These shall be applied across insulator string or bushing insulators.

The gap shall be set to allow the breakdown of the insulation
medium at voltages above 140% of nominal as specified in the
ZETCO’s Parameter Guidelines for Protection Test Document
Number PTOR 020 R 00.

7.11.5 Horn Gaps

These shall be applied above overhead lines or substations to

provide effective protection against direct strike on line
conductors, towers and substation equipment. Horn Gaps shall be
set to provide effective protection against direct strikes on line
conductors, towers and substation equipment as specified by ZEDC.

7.11.6 Lightning Masks

These shall be applied above buildings to protect them against

direct lightning strikes. All substation buildings shall be provided
with lightning masks for protection against direct lightning strikes.
The lightning masks shall be designed as specified by ZEDC.

7.11.7 Surge Arrestors

These shall be applied on lines terminating at the substations and

on the transformer terminals so that they divert over voltages to
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 133 -

earth without causing short circuits. The surge arrestors shall be

as specified by ZEDC.

7.11.8 Protection Against Switching Surges at the Connecting Point

[Link] Where it is recommended through studies shunt reactors and or

pre-closing resistors on circuit breakers shall be installed to
protect against switching surges.

[Link] All distribution circuits at the Connection Point shall be equipped

with surge suppressors and arrestors to limit over voltages.

[Link] Protection of Compensating Equipment

[Link] Protection of Reactors

All reactors shall be protected at the minimum, by Over Current

and Earth Fault Protection, Differential Protection, Restricted
Earth Fault Protection, Gas operated and temperature relays.

[Link] Protection of Capacitors

All Capacitors shall be protected by a minimum of Over Current and

Earth Fault Relays.

[Link] Protection of Static Var Compensators

All Static Var Compensators shall be protected by Over Current

and Earth Fault Relays.

7.12 Safety Protection Requirements

7.12.1 Fire Protection

All electrical energized equipment is capable of causing fire if

proper usage and handling procedures are not adhered to.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 134 -

All ZEDC substations and Connection Points should be equipped

with appropriate electrical fire extinguishers located at strategic
points at each substation. These shall be tested on annual basis.

Fire fighting system shall where appropriate be automatic and in

all instances be adequate.

Fireguards should be created and maintained around the

perimeter of every substation and connection point.

All fuels capable of causing fire such as petrol and diesel should
be stored at sites away from electrical plant in every substation
and Connection Point.

Adequate precautions shall be taken and protection shall be

provided against fir hazards to all indoor equipment.

7.12.2 Personnel Protection

All personnel that have to carry out any works at the Connection
Point or ZEDC Substation shall abide by the ZESA Safety Rules
and any other Safety requirements that shall be put in place by
ZEDC from time to time. As a protection measure to personnel
against electrical hazards the following shall be observed at all
times.

7.12.3 Visitors

All visitors to the Connection Point or ZEDC substation shall obtain

the relevant authority to enter and sign the Visitor’s Live Enclosure
Permit before entering.

7.12.4 Equipment Switching

All switching in ZEDC substations shall be carried out by a ZEDC

Senior Authorized Person under the recorded Instruction of a
ZEDC Controller.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 135 -

7.12.5 Carrying out Works at the Connection Point

All works at the Connection Point or any part of the ZEDC
Network shall be carried out under any of the following ZESA
Safety Documents or any document that shall be specified by
ZEDC from time to time, depending on the nature of works being
carried out.
• Limitation of Access Document
• Permit to Work Document
• Live Line Permit to Work Document
• Sanction for Test Document
• Visitors Live Enclosure Permit

7.13 Earthing Requirements For Substations

7.13.1 Earthing Systems

All substations Earthing Systems should have Earth Resistance

lower than 0.5 ohms for effective discharge of lightning or
over voltages to earth.

The current carrying paths of an Earthing System should have

enough capacity to deal with maximum fault current

Earthing Mat shall be provided below ground level and earth

electrodes shall be driven into ground at several points and
shall be connected to the Earthing Mat to form an Earthing
Mesh.
All structures, transformer tanks, breakers, equipment panels
shall be connected to this mat by galvanised steel strips.

[Link] Periodic Checks on Earthing Systems

[Link] Buried elements of the earthing system should be checked for

condition at random points as and when necessary but not
exceeding a period of five (5) years.

[Link] Circuit continuity should be checked between earthing devices

and earthed elements. Open circuits and high resistance
connections should be investigated and rectified when regular
maintenance is being carried out.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 136 -

[Link] Earthing resistance should be measured and if more than 0.5

ohms, it should be reduced by the addition of any of the following;

• Sodium Chloride (Common Salt)

• Calcium Chloride
• Sodium Carbonate
• Copper Sulphate
• Charcoal
• Soft Coke

7.14 Data Requirements:

Grid Users shall provide ZEDC with all data concerning Protection
in their system that is connected to the Distribution System.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 137 -

SECTION 8

8 FINANCIAL CAPABILITY STANDARDS FOR

DISTRIBUTION

8.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

8.1.1 Purpose
(a) To specify the financial capability standards for Distributors
(b) To safeguard against the risk of financial non-performance;
(c) To ensure the affordability of electric power supply while
maintaining the required quality and reliability; and
(d) To protect the public interest.

8.1.2 Scope of Application

This Section applies to all Distribution System Users .

8.2 FINANCIAL STANDARDS FOR DISTRIBUTORS

8.2.1 Financial Ratios

The following Financial Ratios shall be used to evaluate the
Financial Capability of
Distribution Utilities:
(a) Leverage Ratios;
(b) Liquidity Ratios;
(c) Efficiency Ratios; and
(d) Profitability Ratios.

8.2.2 Leverage Ratios

[Link] The Leverage Ratios for the Distributor shall include the
following:
(a) Debt Ratio;
(b) Debt-Equity Ratio; and
(c) Interest Cover.

[Link] The Debt Ratio shall measure the degree of indebtedness of

financial leverage of the Distribution Utility. The Debt Ratio shall
be calculated as the ratio of Total Liabilities to Total Assets.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 138 -

[Link] The Debt Ratio shall be used to measure the proportion of assets
financed by creditors. The risk addressed by the Debt Ratio is the
possibility that the Distribution Utility cannot pay off interest and
principal.

[Link] The Debt Ratio can also be calculated as the ratio of Long-Term
Debt plus Value of Leases plus Equity. Equity is the sum of
Outstanding Capital Stock, Retained Earnings, and Revaluation
Increment.

[Link] The Debt-Equity Ratio shall indicate the relationship between

long-term funds provided by creditors and those provided by the
Distribution Utility.
The Debt-Equity Ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of the sum
of Long- Term Debt plus Value of Leases to Equity. The Equity shall
be the sum of Outstanding Capital Stock, Retained Earnings, and
Revaluation Increment.

[Link] The Debt-Equity Ratio shall be used to compare the financial

commitments of creditors relative to those of the Distribution
Utility.

[Link] The Debt-Equity Ratio shall be used as a measure of the degree

of financial leverage of the Distribution Utility.

[Link] The Interest Cover shall measure the ability of the Distribution
Utility to service its debts. The Interest Cover shall be computed
as the ratio of Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT) plus
Depreciation to Interest plus Principal Payments.

[Link] The Interest Cover shall also be used as a measure of financial

leverage for the Distribution Utility that focuses on the extent to
which contractual interest and principal payments are covered by
Earnings Before Interest and Taxes plus Depreciation. The
Interest Cover is identical to Debt Service Capability Ratio
because principal payments due during the year are included in the
denominator of the ratio.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 139 -

8.2.3 Liquidity Ratios

[Link] Liquidity Ratios shall include the following:

(a) Financial Current Ratio; and
(b) Quick Ratio.

[Link] The Financial Current Ratio shall measure the ability of the
Distribution Utility to meet short-term obligations. The Financial
Current Ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of Current Assets to
Current Liabilities. The Current Assets shall consist of cash and
assets that can readily be turned into cash by the Distribution
Utility. The Current Liabilities shall consist of payments that the
Distribution Utility is expected to make in the near future.

[Link] The Financial Current Ratio shall be used as a measure of the

margin of liquidity of the Distribution Utility.

[Link] The Quick Ratio shall measure the ability of the Distribution
Utility to satisfy its short-term obligations as they become due.
The Quick Ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of the sum of Cash,
Marketable Securities, and Receivables to the Current Liabilities.

[Link] The Quick Ratio shall be used to measure the safety margin for
the payment of current debt of the Distribution Utility if there is
shrinkage in the value of cash and receivables. It measures the
ease with which the Distribution Utility can pay its bills.

8.2.4 Financial Efficiency Ratios

[Link] Financial Efficiency Ratios shall include the following:

(a) Sales-to-Assets Ratio; and
(b) Average Collection Period.

[Link] The Sales-to-Assets Ratio shall measure the efficiency with

which the Distribution Utility uses all its assets to generate sales.
The Sales-to-Assets Ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of Sales
to Average Total Assets. The Average Total Assets shall be
determined using the average of the assets at the beginning and
end of the year. The higher the Sales-to-Assets Ratio, the more
efficiently the assets of the Distribution Utility have been used.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 140 -

[Link] The Average Collection Period (ACP) shall measure how quickly
other entities pay their bills to the Distribution Utility. The
Average Collection Period shall be calculated as the ratio of
Average Receivables to Daily Sales.
The Average Receivables shall be determined using the average of
the receivables at the beginning and end of the year. The Daily
Sales shall be computed by dividing Sales by 365 days.

[Link] The Average Collection Period shall be used to evaluate the credit
and collection policies of the Distribution Utility.

[Link] Two computations of the Average Collection Period shall be made:

(a) ACP with government accounts and accounts under litigation;
and (b) ACP without government accounts and accounts under
litigation.

8.2.5 Profitability Ratios

[Link] Profitability Ratios shall include the following:

(a) Net Profit Margin; and
(b) Return on Assets.

[Link] The Net Profit Margin shall measure the productivity of sales
effort. The Net Profit Margin shall be calculated as the ratio of
Net Profits After Taxes to Sales. The Net Profits After Taxes
shall be computed as Earnings Before Interest and Taxes minus
Tax (EBIT – Tax). The Average Total Assets shall be computed as
the average of the assets at the beginning and end of the year.

[Link] The Net Profit Margin shall be used to measure the percentage of
each peso of sales of the Distribution Utility that remains after all
costs and expenses have been deducted.

[Link] The Return on Assets (ROA) shall measure the overall

effectiveness of the Distribution Utility in generating profits from
its available assets. The Return on Assets shall be calculated as the
ratio of Earnings Before Interest and Taxes minus Tax (EBIT-
Tax) to the Average Total Assets. The Average Total Assets shall
be computed as the average of the assets at the beginning and end
of the year.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 141 -

[Link] The Return on Assets shall be used to measure the overall

effectiveness of the Distribution Utility in generating profits from
their available assets.

8.2.6 Submission and Evaluation

[Link] The Distributor shall submit to the ZERC true copies of audited
balance sheet and financial statement for the preceding year.

[Link] The Distributor shall submit to the ZERC a profile of customers,

indicating the average power consumption for each class of
customers for the preceding year.

[Link] Failure to submit to the ZERC the requirements shall serve as

grounds for the imposition of appropriate sanctions, fines,
penalties, or adverse evaluation.

[Link] All submissions shall be certified under oath by a duly authorized

officer.

8.3 Certification Standards

8.3.1 Prior to the grant of a license, ZERC may require that applicants,
who do not plan to collect funds or advanced deposits prior to
providing services, to procure a bond or insurance coverage in an
amount sufficient to protect customers in the event of default or
non-performance by the applicant.

8.3.2 The amount of the bond or insurance shall be based on the number
of customers expected to be served and the number of kilowatt-
hours of electricity the applicant expects to supply. Incentives (in
terms of reduced deposit requirements) may be given to applicants
who have shown outstanding customer service performance, and
who have consistently and accurately estimated expected sales.

8.3.3 The applicant shall designate the geographic area (or customer
class) it intends to serve.

8.3.4 ZERC shall adopt an annual fee to be charged to all applicants on an

annual basis (the amount shall be determined by ZERC and will
change from time to time).
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 142 -

8.3.5 Certifications standards apply primarily to applicants who do not

plan to collect funds or advanced deposits prior to providing
services.

8.3.6 Financial Standards for Billing, Collection, and Profitability

[Link] The following Financial Ratios shall be used to assess the

capability of Distributors to bill, collect from its customers, and
earn a satisfactory rate of return on its investment.
(a) Leverage Ratios:
(1) Debt Ratio;
(2) Debt-Equity Ratio; and
(3) Interest Cover;
(b) Liquidity Ratios:
(1) Current Ratio;
(2) Quick Ratio;
(c) Efficiency Ratios:
(1) Sales-to-Assets Ratio; and
(2) Average Collection Period;
(d) Profitability Ratios:
(1) Net Profit Margin; and
(2) Return on Assets.

[Link] The Debt Ratio shall measure the degree of indebtedness or

financial leverage of the Distributor. The Debt Ratio shall be
calculated as the ratio of Total Liabilities to Total Assets. The
Debt Ratio shall be used to measure the proportion of assets
financed by creditors. The risk addressed by the Debt Ratio is the
possibility that the Distributor cannot pay off interest and
principal.

[Link] The Debt-Equity Ratio shall indicate the relationship between

long-term funds provided by creditors and those provided by the
Supplier. The Debt- Equity Ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of
Long-Term Debt plus Value of Leases to Equity.

[Link] The Interest Cover shall measure the ability of the Distributor to
service its debts. The Interest Cover shall be computed as the
ratio of Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT) plus
Depreciation to Interest plus Principal Payments. The Interest
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 143 -

Cover is identical to Debt Service Capability Ratio because

principal payments due during the year are included in the
denominator of the ratio.

[Link] The Financial Current Ratio shall measure the ability of the
Distributor to meet short-term obligations. The Financial Current
Ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of Current Assets to Current
Liabilities. The Current Assets shall consist of cash and assets
that can readily be turned into cash by the Distributor.
The Current Liabilities shall consist of payments that the
Distributor is expected to make in the near future.

[Link] The Quick Ratio shall measure the ability of the Distributor to
satisfy its short-term obligations as they become due; Quick Ratio
shall be calculated as the ratio of the sum of Cash, Marketable
Securities, and Receivables to the Current Liabilities. The Quick
Ratio shall be used to measure the safety margin for the payment
of current debt of the Distributor if there is shrinkage in the
value of cash and receivables.

[Link] The Sales-to-Assets Ratio shall measure the efficiency with

which the Supplier uses all its assets to generate sales. The Sales-
to-Assets Ratio shall be calculated as the ratio of Sales to Average
Total Assets. The Average Total Assets shall be determined using
the average of the assets at the beginning and end of the year.

[Link] The Average Collection Period shall measure how quickly

customers pay their bills to the Distributor. The Average
Collection Period shall be calculated as the ratio of Average
Receivables to Daily Sales. The Average Receivables shall be
determined using the average of the receivables at the beginning
and end of the year. The Daily Sales shall be computed by dividing
Sales by 365 days. Average Collection Period shall be computed
as:
(a) Those with government accounts and accounts under
litigation; and
(b) Those without government accounts and without accounts
under litigation.

[Link] The Net Profit Margin shall measure the productivity of sales
effort. The Net Profit Margin shall be calculated as the ratio of
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 144 -

Net Profits After Taxes to Sales. The Net Profits After Taxes
shall be computed as Earnings Before Interest and Taxes minus
Tax (EBIT – Tax).

[Link] The Return on Assets shall measure the overall effectiveness of

the Supplier in generating profits from its available assets. The
Return on Assets shall be calculated as the ratio of Earnings
Before Interest and Taxes minus Tax (EBIT – Tax) to the Average
Total Assets. The Average Total Assets shall be computed as the
average of the assets at the beginning and end of the year.

8.3.7 Organizational and Managerial Resource Requirements

[Link] As a requisite for providing retail electric service, a Distributor

shall have the technical resources to supply continuous electric
service to Customers in its service area and the organizational and
managerial ability, in accordance with its Customer contracts.

[Link] The applicant shall provide the following information:

(a) Capability to comply with all scheduling, operating, planning,
reliability, Customer registration and settlement policies, rules,
guidelines, and procedures established by the Grid Owner and
System Operator;
(b) Capability to comply with 24-hour coordination with control
centres for scheduling changes, reserve implementation,
curtailment orders, interruption plan and implementation, and
telephone number, fax number, and address where its staff can be
directly reached at all times;
(c) At least one officer or employee experienced in the retail
electric industry, or a related industry;
(d) Adequate staffing and employee training to meet all service
level commitments;
(e) A Customer Service Program that describes how the
Distributor complies with the ZERC’s customer protection rules;
and
(f) A disclosure of whether the applicant (officer, director, or
principal) has been found liable for fraud, theft or larceny, deceit,
or violations of any customer protection or deceptive trade laws in
any country.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 145 -

8.3.8 Submission and Evaluation

[Link] The Distributor shall submit to ZERC true copies of audited

balance sheet, income statements, and cash flow statements for
the two most recent twelve (12) month periods. These
requirements shall be submitted by the applicant upon application
for licensing .

[Link] Within 60 days of complying with the credit standards, the

applicant shall file with ZERC a sworn affidavit that demonstrates
compliance with this requirement. Such a demonstration of
compliance shall include the provision, along with the affidavit, of
independent third party documentation verifying the veracity of
the information relied upon for compliance.

[Link] Within 60 days of complying with the financial standards for

Customer protection, the applicant shall file with ZERC a sworn
affidavit that attests compliance with the minimum-security
deposit requirement. Such a demonstration of compliance shall be
accompanied by documentation by the bank, insurance company, or
any accredited financial intermediary verifying the integrity and
validity of the financial instruments relied upon for compliance.

[Link] Within 60 days of complying with certification standards, the

applicant shall file with ZERC a sworn affidavit that attests
compliance Such a demonstration of compliance shall be
accompanied by documentation from an independent third party
verifying the validity of the documents relied upon for compliance.

[Link] Within 60 days of complying with organizational and managerial

resource requirements, the applicant (or Supplier) shall file with
ZERC a sworn affidavit that attests compliance with this
requirement.

[Link] The applicant shall inform ZERC of its proposed geographic

service area.

[Link] The applicant shall inform ZERC the type of service agreement it
entered with a Distribution Utility whose franchise area the
applicant is planning to offer its services. Such an agreement shall
include a provision of whether End-Users will be billed separately
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 146 -

by the Supplier and Distribution Utility, or will instead receive a

consolidated bill from either the Supplier or the Distribution
Utility.

[Link] The Distributor shall submit to ZERC a profile of its customers,

indicating the average power consumption for each type of
customers for the preceding twelve months. This requirement shall
be due on or before May 15 of the current year.

[Link] Failure to submit the requirements to ZERC, shall serve as

grounds for the imposition of appropriate sanctions, fines,
penalties, or adverse evaluation.

[Link] All submissions shall be certified under oath by a duly authorized

officer.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 147 -

SECTION 9

9 INFORMATION EXCHANGE CODE

9. 1 Introduction

The Information Exchange Code defines the reciprocal obligations

of parties with regard to the provision of information for the
implementation of the Distribution Code.

The information requirements are necessary to ensure non-

discriminatory access to the Distribution System and the safe,
reliable provision of distribution services.

The information requirements are divided into planning information,

operational information and post-dispatch information.

Information criteria specified in the Information Exchange Code

are supplementary to the other codes within the Distribution Code.

9.2 Information exchange interface

The parties shall identify the following for each type of

information exchange:

• The name, designation and contact details of the person(s)

designated by the information owner to be responsible for
provision of the information
• The names, contact details of, and the parties represented by
persons requesting the information
• The purpose for which the information is required.

9.2.1 Confidentiality of information

9.2.2 Information exchanged between parties governed by this code

shall be confidential.

9.2.3 Confidential information shall not be transferred to a third party

without the written consent of the information owner. Parties shall
observe the proprietary rights of third parties for the purposes of
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 148 -

this code. Access to confidential information within the

organisations of parties shall be provided as reasonably required.

9.2.4 Parties receiving information shall use the information only for
the purpose for which it was supplied.

9.2.5 The information owner may request the receiver of information

to enter into a confidentiality agreement before information,
established to be confidential, is provided. A pro forma
agreement is included in Appendix II.

[Link] The parties shall take all reasonable measures to control

unauthorized access to confidential information and to ensure
secure information exchange. Parties shall report any leak of
information that is governed by a confidentiality agreement as
soon as practicable after they become aware of the leak, and
shall provide the information owner with all reasonable
assistance to ensure its recovery or destruction (as deemed
appropriate by the information owner).

9.3 Telephone/Fax

The Distribution System User and ZEDC shall be responsible for the
provision and maintenance of no less than one telephone and one fax
unit that shall be reserved for operational purposes only, and shall
be continuously attended to and answered without undue delay.

ZEDC shall use a voice recorder for historical recording of all

operational voice communication with Distribution System Users.
These records shall be available for at least one (1) year. ZEDC shall
make the voice records of an identified incident in dispute available
within a reasonable time after such a request from the Distribution
User and/or ZERC.

9.4 Electronic Mail

Electronic communication, wherever used shall always be supported

by signed hard copies. The data should be in the same format as
specified for hard copy transmission.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 149 -

The exchange of archived data shall preferable be carried out on a

computer-to-computer basis communication link.

9.5 System planning information

9.5.1 Distribution System Users shall provide such information as and

when requested by ZEDC for the purposes of planning and
developing the Distribution System .The parties shall submit
the information to ZEDC without undue delay. Such information
may be required so that ZEDC can plan and develop the
Distribution System, monitor current and future power system
adequacy and performance, and fulfill its statutory or
regulatory obligations.

9.5.2 Distribution System User shall submit to ZEDC and to all

relevant service providers the relevant information as specified
by ZEDC from time to time.

9.5.3 ZEDC may request additional information as and when required.

9.5.4 ZEDC shall keep an updated technical database of the System

for purposes of modeling and studying the behavior of the
Distribution System.
9.5.5 ZEDC shall provide Distribution System Users , upon any
reasonable request, with any relevant information that they
require to properly plan and design their own
networks/installations or comply with their other obligations in
terms of the Distribution Code
9.5.6 ZEDC shall make available all the relevant information related
to network planning as described in the Distribution Connection
Code, Section 2 of this Distribution Code.
9.5.7 Customers shall, upon request to upgrade an existing connection
or when applying for a new connection provide ZEDC with
information relating to the following:
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 150 -

Table 9.5 Distribution System Planning Requirements for Customers

Connection Projected or target connecting date

Commissioning Target commissioning date

Reliability of connection Number of connecting circuits, e.g. one or
requested two feeders, or firm/non-firm supply
required
Location map. Upgrades: name of existing point of
supply to be upgraded and supply voltage
New connections: provide a 1:50 000 or
other agreed scale location map, with the
location of the facility clearly marked. In
addition, co-ordinates of the point of
connection to be specified
Site plan Provide a plan of the site (1:200 or 1:500)
of the proposed facility, with the
proposed point of supply, and where
applicable, the distribution line route
from the facility boundary to the point of
supply, clearly marked
Provide an electrical single-line diagram of
Electrical single-line the Distribution System User’s intake
diagram substation and to provide an accurate
record of the layout of circuits,
numbering and nomenclature of equipment
and plant.

9.5.8 ZEDC may estimate any Distribution System planning

information not provided by the Distribution System user.
ZEDC shall take all reasonable steps to reach agreement with
the Grid User on estimated data items. ZEDC shall indicate to
the Distribution System User any data items that have been
estimated. The obligation to ensure the correctness of data
remains with the Distribution System User.

9.5.9 Embedded Generators shall submit to ZEDC all the maintenance

planning information detailed in Section 5 of this Distribution
Code with regard to each unit at each power station.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 151 -

9.6 Operational information

9.6.1 Pre-commissioning studies

[Link] Customers shall meet all system planning information

requirements before the commissioning test date. (This will
include confirming any estimated values assumed for planning
purposes or, where practical, replacing them with validated
actual values and with updated estimates for the future.)

9.6.2 Commissioning and notification

(a) Records of commissioning shall be maintained for reference

by the asset owner for the operational life of the plant and
shall be made available, within a reasonable time, to ZEDC
upon notification of such request.
(b) The asset owner shall communicate changes made during an
outage to commissioned equipment, to ZEDC before the
equipment is returned to service. ZEDC shall keep
commissioning records of operational data for the
operational life of the plant connected to the Distribution
System.

(c) Participants shall give ZEDC notice, as defined in the

Operations Code, of the time at which the commissioning
tests will be carried out.

9.6.3 General information acquisition requirements

[Link] Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)

The information exchange shall support data from the SCADA

system. The System Operator (ZETCO) shall monitor the state
of the power system using the data from the remote terminal
units (RTU).

The SCADA system shall be used for storage, display and

processing of operational real time data. All Distribution
System Users and Generating Units shall make available outputs
of their respective operational equipment to the data
acquisition system or as specified in the connection agreement.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 152 -

The data collection, storage, monitoring and display center for

ZEDC SCADA data shall be The National Control Center.

[Link] Generation Operational SCADA data

The Generator Unit shall provide operational information for

both real time and recording purposes in relation to each
Generating Unit at each Power Station in respect of indications
and measurands as follows:

i. Mwhr
ii. Voltage
iii. Frequency
iv. MW
v. MVAr
and any other additional data as specified in the
connection agreement.

[Link] Distribution System Operational SCADA data

ZEDC and the Distribution System user shall specify the data
characteristics for monitoring electrical supply and load
characteristic at each sub-station and connection point. The data
shall be used for both real time and recording purposes in relation
to each feeder, transformer and compensation device in respect of
indications and measurands as follows:

i. Voltage
ii. Frequency
iii. MW
iv. MVAr
v. Current
and any other additional data as specified in the
connection agreement.

[Link] Process signals interface to RTU

The interface of the process signals to RTU shall be as

specified by ZEDC. The Interface cabinets shall be installed in
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 153 -

the Distribution System users plant and equipment room if

required. The provision and maintenance of the wiring and
signaling from the Distribution System Users plant and
equipment to the interface cable to MDF shall be the
responsibility of the Distribution System User.

9.6.4 Measurements and indications to be supplied by the Distribution

System Users to ZEDC shall include the formats as specified by
ZEDC. Where required signals become unavailable or do not
comply with applicable standards for reasons within the control
of the provider of the information, such participant shall report
and restore or correct the signals and/or indications as soon as
reasonable.
9.6.5 ZEDC shall notify the Distribution System User, where ZEDC,
acting reasonably and in consultation with the Distribution
System User, determines that additional measurements and/or
indications in relation to a Distribution System User plant and
equipment are needed to meet a Distribution System
requirement. The costs related to the participant’s
modifications for the additional measurements and/or
indications shall be for the account of the providing
Distribution System User
9.6.6 On receipt of such notification from ZEDC the Distribution
System User shall promptly ensure that such measurements
and/or indications are made available at the RTU.
9.6.7 ZEDC and the Distribution System User shall agree on the
timeous provision of operational data items as per the relevant
Power Purchase Agreement and/or Power Supply Agreement.
9.6.8 Distribution System Users shall jointly verify all measurements
and/or indications for functionality and accuracy once every
three (3) years, so as to achieve overall accuracy of operational
measurements within the limits agreed.
9.6.9 The data formats to be used and the fields of information to be
supplied to ZEDC by the Distribution System Users shall be as
per the Power Purchase Agreements.
9.6.10 ZEDC shall provide periodic feedback to Distribution System
Users regarding the status of equipment and systems installed
in the substations where they are connected to the Distribution
System. The feedback shall include results from tests,
condition monitoring, inspections, audits, failure trends and
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 154 -

calibration. The frequency of the feedback shall be determined

in the operating agreement, but will not exceed one year.
9.6.11 Plant status reports provided by Distribution System Users will
also include contingency plans where applicable.

9.7 Unit Scheduling

9.7.1 Declared Available Capacity

Embedded Generators shall complete and submit to ZEDC the

Declared Available Capacity for each generating unit at a period
specified by ZEDC under the Power Purchase Agreement. All
scheduled and other outages and deratings which prevent some or
all of the Dependable Capacity of each unit from being available for
dispatch shall be specified. Should the Declared Available Capacity
be less than the Dependable Capacity for any generating unit due
to a reason other than Scheduled Outage, the embedded generator
or any other generator shall explain the reason for the reduction,
the action planned to restore the unit to the Dependable Capacity
level, and the estimated time required for such restoration.

9.7.2 Statement of Reduction and Re-establishment in Declared

Available Capacity

[Link] Should the embedded generator or any generator become aware

of a change in status of any generating units following the
submission of the Declared Available Capacity it shall make this
status change known immediately to ZEDC by telephone,
followed by written confirmation to be received by ZEDC within
one hour. The embedded generator or any other generator shall
confirm the reduction in Declared Available Capacity, the
reason for the reduction, the action planned to restore the
Declared Available Capacity to the Dependable Capacity level,
and the estimated time required for such restoration.
[Link] Once the Declared Available Capacity can be increased over the
levels stated above this change in status shall immediately be
relayed to ZEDC by telephone communication, followed by
written confirmation to be received by ZEDC within one hour.
ZEDC may then dispatch the affected generating unit at the
Declared Available Capacity level.

9.7.3 Scheduled Capacity Requirement

[Link] ZEDC will notify the embedded generator or any other

generator of its Scheduled Capacity requirements for the plant
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 155 -

for each hour of the day as per Power Purchase Agreement the
embedded generator or any other generator will confirm
acceptance and dispatch the plant to the Capacity Schedule
specified in the Power Purchase Agreement.
[Link] Should ZEDC require changing the Scheduled Capacity level of
the plant at any time, it shall notify the embedded generator or
any other generator of all changes through telephone
communication, followed by sending a revised schedule to be
received by the embedded generator or any other generator
within one hour. the embedded generator will dispatch the plant
to the revised Scheduled Capacity requirements as notified by
the initial telephone communication.

9.8 Demand Scheduling

ZEDC reserves the right to load shed should circumstances

beyond its control arise. This will be done to ensure system
integrity. ZEDC shall as soon as possible give notice of any
imminent load dropping that might arise due to plant outages
due to maintenance. However for forced outages such notices
might not be possible

9.9 Data storage and archiving

The obligation for data storage and archiving shall lie with the
information owner.
9.9.1 The systems that store the data and/or information to be used
by the parties shall be of their own choice and for their own
cost.
9.9.2 All the systems must be able to be audited by the ZERC.
9.9.3 The systems must provide for clear and accessible audit trails
on all relevant operational transactions. All requests that
require an audit on a system shall be undertaken with
reasonable notice to the parties.
9.9.4 The information owner shall keep all hard copy and/or paper-
based information for a period of at least five (5) years (unless
otherwise specified in the Distribution Code) commencing from
the date the information was created.
9.9.5 Parties shall ensure reasonable security against unauthorized
access, use and loss of information (i.e. have a backup strategy)
for the systems that contain the information.
9.9.6 Parties shall store planning information that is kept
electronically for at least five (5) years or for the life of the
plant or equipment concerned, whichever is the longer.
9.9.7 ZEDC shall archive operational information, in a historical
repository sized for three (3) years’ data. This data includes
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 156 -

transmission time-tagged status information, change of state

alarms, and event messages, hourly scheduling and energy
accounting information and operator entered data and actions.
9.9.8 An audit trail of all changes made to archived data should be
maintained. This audit trail shall identify every change made,
and the time and date of the change. The audit trail shall
include both before and after values of all content and
structure changes.

9.10 File Transfers

The format of the files used for data transfer shall be negotiated and
defined by the supplier and receiver of the information. The file transfer
media shall be negotiated and defined by both parties involved. The
parties shall keep the agreed number of files for backup purposes so as
to enable the recovery of information in the case of communication
failures.

9.11 Performance data

9.11.1 Generator performance data

[Link] Embedded Generators shall provide ZEDC monthly with

performance indicators in relation to each unit at each power
station in respect of availability and reliability as determined
from time to time by ZEDC.
[Link] Embedded Generators shall report significant events, such as
catastrophic failures, to the ZERC within one (1) week of
occurrence of such event.

9.11.2 Performance Indicators

ZEDC shall make the following Distribution System performance

indicators available monthly to the ZERC:
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 157 -

Table 9.11.2 ZEDC Performance Indicators to be submitted to ZERC

Indicator Performance this Performance year Current

month to date internatio
nal
performan
ce where
applicable
Actual Target Actual Target
ed ed
Energy sold by tariff
class and economic
activity
Number of customers by
customer category
Number of customers
(rural and urban)
Number of new
connections by customer
category
Number of electrified
social/community services
(schools,clinics)
Households with access to
electricity
Number of employees per
customer
Number of customer
complaints
Change of tenancy
effected within 24 hours
Average waiting period
for connection in days
Number of faults by %
voltage and by cause
Average arrival time at a
fault in minutes
% interruptions restored
within 3 hours
% interruptions restored
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 158 -

within 24 hours
Average waiting period
for connection in days
% customers outside
statutory voltage limits
Minutes lost per
connected customer

Revenue and expenditure

data by source and
expenditure item
Average collecting period
Distribution losses
(technical and non-
technical)
Total system losses
Energy intensities by
customer category
System load factor
Electrification rates
KWh/employee
CAIDI (Customer
Average Interruption
Duration Index)
Payroll per employee
Paid customer but
unconnected
Application waiting period

Line length by voltage

level
Total transformer
installed capacity
Number of employees per
category
(managerial,technical etc)
Sales revenue per
employee
Customers per employee
Total payroll
Payroll per employee
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 159 -

Debt collection days

Average tariff per
customer category
Electricity costs as a %
of total costs by
customer category (non
residential consumers)
Cost of electricity as a %
of household expenditure
Magnitude of subsidies
Monetary value of DSM
programmes carried out
Reduction in energy due
to energy efficiency
programmes
Reduction in demand due
to demand side
management programmes
Monetary value of
renewable energy
programmes carried out
Number of connections
from renewable energy
sources
Total number of accidents
recorded
Number of disabling
injuries
Number of fatalities
Number of incidents
involving property damage
Accident frequency rate

Accident severity rate

Line length by voltage
level
Number of faults by
cause and voltage level
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 160 -

FINANCIAL INDICATORS FOR ALL DISTRIBUTORS

Indicator Performance this Performance year Current

month to date international
performance
where
applicable
Actual Targeted Actual Targeted
Return on sales
Return on
assets
Return on
capital
employed-
ROCE
Liquidity Acid
Test (Quick
ratios) (times)
-Current ration
(times)
-Debtor
collection days
Debt
management-
Debt to equity
ratio
-Debt ratio (%)
-Debt coverage
ratio (times)
-interest cover
(times)
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 161 -

SECTION 10

PROJECT APRAISAL FRAMEWORK CODE

10.1 Introduction

The purpose of this code is to provide guidance on how to appraise

projects in ZEDC to ensure that only projects that satisfy ZEDC 's
viability criteria are implemented.

This edition of the appraisal framework unlike the previous edition

includes project documentation guidelines and guidelines on the
economic and financial analysis of projects to determine whether
projects will increase shareholder value/wealth or not. The underlying
principles are that:

i) Money received today can be invested to earn more money at

a real rate of interest.
ii) Inflation erodes purchasing power of money such that money
received in the future does not buy the same quantity of
goods as money today.
iii) There is risk that money expected in the future might not
be received. This is called default risk.
iv) There is the risk that the investors might not be able to
liquidate the investment into cash at a fair market price.
This is called liquidity risk

The proper carrying out of a project appraisal will ensure that the
proper opportunity cost of public money will be undertaken in an
environment where projects are competing for scarce public funds.

10.1.1 Project Documentation Guidelines

These guidelines are meant to provide guidance on areas to include

when writing up project proposals to ensure that there is clarity
and uniformity in presentations. The guidelines presented here are
the minimum requirements and are not exhaustive as projects
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 162 -

always vary according to what they are meant to address. It is

however felt that some of the major topics for any project are
covered. Any relevant additional information that helps better the
proposal can still be included.

10.1.3 Project Justification

The project justification should include:

• Purpose of the project

• Nature of the project: Either new works,
reinforcement/rehabilitation, replacement or expansion
• How the project is going to fit into the infrastructure already
in place and future plans
• Corporate strategic issues the project meant to address
• Identification of the needed service or measures to solve the
problems being presently encountered
• Identification of options to provide the needed service. Here
the planner must provide the full portfolio of available options
• Evaluation of criteria for evaluating options (e.g. reserve
margin, voltage limits)
• Analysis of options considering technical, economic, financial and
environmental impacts
• Analyzing availability of resources in ZEDC - labour (local skills,
expatriate skills), training; financial resources (local and
foreign), physical (land, buildings). Any other possible
constraints to be addressed here.
• A recommendation to commit resources to the plan, which
provides the needed service in the most cost-efficient manner
possible, and which balances the interests of customers and
ZEDC.
• For the chosen alternative it is necessary to ensure that the
costs are current. If any price changes are foreseen (before
approval of project) it may be necessary to include a
conservative (+-10%) price change contingency.
• Cost – Benefit analysis (Identification of benefits flowing out
of the inception of such projects

A simple procedure to identify benefits of projects should

involve answering the following questions:
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 163 -

What is the problem to be addressed?

How is the problem being addressed now? - status quo
What costs are associated with the status quo, which would not
be incurred with the inception of the project? - These become
the benefits or costs saved.

10.1.3 Results of cost/benefit analysis

[Link] A brief outline of the results of the financial and economic

analysis of the recommended least cost option (as carried out in
compliance to the procedures set in Section 3.3 of this
Distribution Code) shall be contained in the project
documentation.
[Link] The project documentation shall contain a comment on whether
the project passes the set approved viability criteria.
[Link] Projects shall be subjected to sensitivity analysis and the
results of such a sensitivity analysis shall constitute project
documentation

10.1.4 Conclusions and recommendations

The project documentation shall provide specific recommendation

made by the initiator of the proposal, on how the project shall be
implemented. Such a recommendation shall have an alternative fall
back plan.

10.2 APPRAISAL GUIDELINES

10.2.1 Economic Analysis

[Link] Purpose

Main purpose of carrying out economic project appraisals to

ensure that scarce resources are used to the best advantage
of ZEDCO and the country in terms of meeting adequate,
safe, reliable, environmentally friendly and least cost energy
supplies.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 164 -

[Link] Underlying Principles

Economic analysis shall be based on real prices with a view to

secure maximum benefit to the society as a whole rather
than the utility. In general, all domestic transfers like
indirect taxes, duties, and interest on loans, loan repayment,
depreciation and subsidies shall be excluded in prices used in
economic analysis. Apart from the exclusion of transfers,
the economic analysis shall make use of shadow pricing, which
corrects for the distortions existing in the market. Such
shadow prices shall be for foreign exchange, labour and the
discount rate.

[Link] Cost Parameters

[Link].1 The cost shall be calculated on an incremental basis, which

means that sunk costs should be excluded. Sunk costs are
costs already incurred before the analysis of the project.

[Link].2 The costs should be based on standard prices. The prices

shall be availed to any user or ZERC

[Link].3 Investment or Capital Costs

For projects the capital costs shall be split into two
categories, namely foreign and local costs.

[Link].4 Foreign costs require use of foreign currency to acquire the

project inputs (materials, labour & transport), and local costs
(also materials, labour & transport) require the use of local
currency.

[Link].5 Foreign costs shall be shadow priced by the shadow price of

foreign currency, whilst the labour component shall be
further shadow priced by the labour adjustment factor.

[Link].6 Costs quoted in foreign currencies shall be converted to local

currency using the ruling exchange rate at the time of
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 165 -

analysis and the assumptions used shall be made available to

ZERC and any other User.

[Link].7 Unless prices are expected to increase before actual

implementation (in which case a price contingency would have
to be included), no conversion or adjustments are required
for these costs.

[Link].8 Total capital or investment costs shall be obtained by adding

the foreign and local portions of costs.

10.2.2 Operation and Maintenance Costs

Annual O & M costs shall be assumed to be 1.5% of capital
costs. They shall be obtained by multiplying the total capital
investment costs by 1.5% for the lifetime or period of
analysis of the project. However where actual figures can
be obtained use should be made of them in place of this
assumption.

[Link] Electricity Production Cost

The electricity production cost includes cost of generation,

and relevant cost on the transmission, sub-transmission and
distribution network. These shall be obtained by multiplying
the units or kWh generated by the average electricity
production costs applicable to the voltage level.

Discount Rates

These shall be as stipulated by Government from time to time

[Link] Opportunity Costs

Any opportunity costs or loss of revenue due to the

implementation of a project must be taken into account
during economic analysis. The loss in revenue must be
included in the analysis for the project life.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 166 -

[Link] Transfer Payments

Sales tax, custom duties, income tax, subsidies and interest

on borrowed funds are all regarded as transfer payments in
economic analysis and should therefore be ignored as they
do not represent direct claims on the country’s resources,
but merely reflect a transfer of the control over resources
within the country.

[Link] Shadow Pricing

Shadow prices are economic accounting prices specifically

estimated to be used in project appraisal to correct for
market distortions. Shadow price corrections are most
frequently applied on the following type of cost.

[Link] Foreign exchange (Shadow Exchange Rate)

Because economic analysis is concerned with the real cost of

resources, an exchange rate higher than the official rate,
i.e. the shadow rate should be used in estimating the foreign
exchange value.

[Link] Economic Life

Depending on the nature of the project, the following

economic life should be assumed:
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 167 -

Table [Link] Economic Life of Projects

ITEM EXPECTED
LIFE(Years)
Civil Works and Buildings 20-50
General Equipment 25
TRANSMISSION EQUIPMENT
Lines 25-45
cables 35
electrotechnical 25
plant and 25
machinery
Tools 10
Light Vehicles 5
Heavy Vehicles 5
Office Furniture 5
Office machinery including 5
typewriters
Office Equipment including 3
Computers
DISTRIBUTION EQUIPMENT
lines 25-45
cables 35
electrotechnical 25
plant and 25
machinery
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 168 -

[Link] Benefits

Each benefit arising form the implementation of the project

should be captured and put in a different column, e.g. Sales
Revenue that is obtained by multiplying the number of units or
kWh to be sold by the average tariff applicable for the
financial year. In cases where there is more than one stream
of benefits these need to be summed up in a separate column
for total benefits.

10.2.3 Cost-Benefit Analysis

[Link] Objective

The objective of cost-benefit analysis is to test the economic

viability of the least-cost option that will have been selected. In
other words cost-benefit analysis assesses the benefits accruing
to the economy as a result of implementing a project.

[Link] Methodology

Cost-benefit analysis shall be based on a projection of economic

costs and benefits over the lifetime of the project.

Once the costs and benefits have been established, a cash flow
statement shall be set up for each year in the period of the
analysis. The streams of benefit and cost should be discounted
using the discount rate that is market based.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 169 -

[Link] Discount Factors

These shall be calculated using the formula given below:

1/(1+r)n

Where r is the discount rate as advised from time to time by

ZEDC and n is a time variable.

For the base year n = 0 and for the following year it will be 1
(one) until the last year of the project's life.

[Link] Discount Rate

The discount rate or cost of capital is the rate of interest

reflecting the value of money that is used to convert costs
and benefit accruing at different times to equivalent values
at a common time.
Using the Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return
(IRR), the Benefit to Cost ratio and the Least Cost Approach
the viability of a project should be determined.

[Link] The Net Present Value (NPV)

The idea behind the NPV technique is that it discounts the

cash flows generated by an asset back to the present day.
Thus the NPV technique is concerned with the time value of
money. The key consideration is on the net present value,
which is the net of the initial (original) cost and the present
value of all other cash flows. This is as opposed to the
present value of the cash flows, which would simply be the
sum of the original cash flows in each year.

The NPV shall be calculated as follows:

NPV=ΣNCFt -I0
t
(1 + r)

Discounted cash flows are summed over life of project (N).

Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 170 -

NPV = CFI x PVIF (K%, 1year)+ CF2 x PVIF (K%, 2 yrs) +… CFn
x PVIF (K%, n yrs) -I0

Where CFt = cash flow in year t

K = cost of capital or discount rate
n = period of investment
I0 = Initial investment

Where future cash flows are an annuity (an equal amount),

NPV = CI F x PVIF A (k%, n yrs) - I0

Where CF = annual Cash Flow

PVIFA = present value interest factor of an

annuity

The net present value decision criteria are the acceptance of a

project with an NPV equal to or greater than zero and the rejection of
a project with an NPV less than zero. When comparing mutually
exclusive projects, the decision criterion is to accept the project with
the highest NPV.

[Link] The Internal Rate of Return (IRR)

Whilst the net present value method provides useful information

on project acceptance, the results from different projects need to
be compared in conjunction with the internal rate of return (IRR)
method.

The IRR is defined as the discount rate, which will result in an NPV
of zero.

0 = CFI x PVIF (IRR%, 1yr)+CF2 x PVIF (IRR%, 2 yrs)+… CFn x PVIF

(IRR%, n yrs) -I0
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 171 -

To find the IRR one has to solve for the discount rate that gives
an NPV that is equal to zero.

The IRR decision criteria shall be acceptance of a project with IRR

equal or greater than the discount rate used in the analysis and
rejection of a project with an IRR less than the cut off discount
rate. In the case of comparing projects, the project with the
highest IRR should be given top priority if the projects under
consideration are otherwise comparable.

[Link] The Payback Period

The payback period measures the length of time it takes a project

to repay its initial capital cost.

The payback period calculation is:

The cash flow received

Number of years immediately during the year to take
prior to the year in which the cumulative cash flow to zero
payback PLUS The total cash flow during the
period occurs year during which the payback
period occurs

Payback Period = Initial Investment/Annual Cash flow (If the

project Cash flows are an annuity)

Or

Payback Period = t Io - Ct
CFt + 1 For unequal cash flows

Where
t = is the last full year in which the cumulative cash flow are
less than the initial investment

Io = the initial investment

CFt + 1 = the cash flow in year t +1

Ct = Cumulative cashflow
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 172 -

The method can be used where on, viable mutually exclusive projects
the period of recovery of the initial investment a major
consideration. The acceptable payback period can be decided by the
company and may depend on the nature of the project and costs
involved.

[Link] Benefit-Cost Ratio

Projects shall be analysed for benefit – cost ratio. This shall be

calculated by dividing the total discounted benefits by the total
discounted costs.

[Link] Financial Analysis

All projects shall be financially appraised. The financial analysis of

a project estimates the profit accruing to the project-operating
entity or to the project participants, whereas economic analysis
measures the effect of the project on the national economy. For a
project to be economically viable, it must be financially sustainable,
as well as economically efficient. If a project is not financially
sustainable, economic benefits will not be realized. Financial
analysis and economic analysis are therefore two sides of the same
coin and complementary.

In financial analysis all expenditures incurred under the project

and revenues resulting from it should be taken into account. This
form of analysis is necessary to:

• Assess the degree to which a project will generate

revenues sufficient to meet financial obligations,
• Assess the incentives for producers, and
• Ensure demand or output forecasts on which the
economic analysis is based are consistent with financial
charges or available budget resources.

The steps presented below should be followed in undertaking

financial analysis of projects.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 173 -

[Link] Capital Costs

Costs quoted in foreign currency should be converted to

local currency using the exchange rate ruling at the time of
the analysis.

When costs are being incurred over a number of years they

must be escalated by the relevant inflation index over the
period they are being incurred.

Inflation index for base year is equal to 1 (one)

Inflation index for subsequent years = Ifi * (1+R)

Where:

Ifi is inflation index for previous year

R is inflation rate for the year under consideration written
in decimal form. Appendix 1 shows the forecast exchange
rates and inflation rates.

10.2.4 Total Capital/Investment Costs

Total capital or investment costs shall be obtained by adding

the foreign and local costs.

[Link] Operating & Maintenance (O & M) Costs

O & M costs shall be obtained by multiplying the total

capital/investment costs by 1.5% and then escalating the
results by the inflation index for that year e.g. Σ(D1…Dn)
*0.015Ifi.

Where D1..Dn are the capital costs

Ifi is the inflation index for the year under consideration

Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 174 -

[Link] Electricity Production Costs

These shall be obtained by multiplying the units or kWh

generated by the average electricity production cost
applicable to the voltage level and then escalating using the
inflation index for each year.

[Link] Total Costs

These shall be obtained by the summation of total capital

costs, operating and maintenance costs and electricity
production costs.

[Link] Benefits

These vary depending on the nature of project being

considered. Each benefit stream should be put in a different
column, e.g. sales revenue is obtained by multiplying the
number of units or kWh to be sold in a particular year by the
average tariff and then escalated by the inflation index for
that year. In cases where there is more than one stream of
benefits these need to be summated in the total benefits
column.

[Link] Net Benefits or Net Cash Flows

This is obtained by subtracting the total costs from total

benefits.

[Link] Discount Factors

These are calculated using the formula given below:

1/(1+r)n

where r is the discount rate as advised from time to time.

n is the number of years of the project’s useful life.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 175 -

[Link] Net Present Values

These are obtained by multiplying the respective net

benefits or net cash flows by the discount factor for each
year of the project’s lifetime or period of analysis. The total
of this column gives us the NPV.

[Link] Cumulative Net Present Values

For the first or base year this is obtained by adding the net
present value that has been calculated in the previous step
(therefore cumulative NPV for first year equals NPV for
first year). For subsequent years it is obtained by adding the
cumulative net present value of the preceding year and the
net present value of that year.

[Link] Discounted Benefits And Costs

Discounted benefits are obtained by multiplying the total

benefits by the respective discount factors while the
discounted costs are obtained by multiplying the total costs
by the respective discount factors. Each column of the
resultant figures needs to be summed.

10.2.5 Internal Rate Of Return (IRR)

This is obtained by using the formula below:

@ IRR (I, L5…L24)

Where:
@ is a lotus function,
IRR is the Internal Rate of Return,
I is an imaginary discount rate written in decimal form and
usually ranges from 0.1 to 0.9 where 0.1 represent 10% and
0.9 represents 90% but can exceed unity.
(L5…L24) represents the net cash flows or net benefits
from the first year to the last year of the period of
analysis.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 176 -

[Link] Benefit-Cost Ratio

This is obtained by dividing the total discounted benefits by

the total discounted costs.

[Link] Assumptions
The following assumptions need to be stated where applicable.

i. Discount Rate
ii. O & M cost as a percentage of total investment costs
iii. Average Electricity Production Costs for period under
consideration
iv. Average Tariffs for period under consideration
v. Load Growth Rate per Annum
vi. Load Factor or Power Factor
vii. Exchange rate
viii. Derivation of benefits for support projects

[Link] Expected Results

A viable project has to meet the criteria below :

I) At least 18 % internal rate of return (IRR)

II) A benefit-cost ratio of at least 1
III) A positive net present value (NPV)

[Link] Environmental Impact Assessment

All distribution projects shall be subjected to Environmental

Impact Assessment (EIA). The Environmental Impact
assessment shall be as per the Environmental Code developed
and amended by ZERC from time to time, but should include
the following issues.

[Link] Major Environmental Issues

The major environmental issues shall be assessed and

incorporated in the planning stage as underscored in the
following section.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 177 -

[Link] Physical/Biological Effects

All distribution projects shall be assessed on their physical and

biological effects as follows:

Pollution (water, soil, air, noise)

Waste handling, storage and treatment (solid, water
borne, gaseous)
Effect on downstream surface water bodies (water
quality, siltation, and change in regime).
Effect on soil (erosion, compaction, quality)
Loss or change of local and surrounding ecosystems e.g.
cutting trees
Effect on threatened/protected species
Effect on protected areas or habitats
Interference in animal populations (migration, free
movement, behavior, breeding)
Any other physical and/or biological effects that could be
of major concern to ZEDC or any segment of society

[Link] Social Effects

All distribution projects shall be assessed on their social

effects as follows:

Effect on local community's way of life e.g. displacement

Consultation, participation and support from local
community
Possible resistance to development
Restriction of traditional access (pathways, religious
sites, etc.)
Threat to traditional cultural sites and artifacts
Loss of access to traditional natural resources (grazing,
firewood, medicines)
Increased risks to public health (accidents, diseases,
deteriorated water supply)
Any other social effects that could be of major concern
to ZETCO or any segment of the public
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 178 -

[Link] Economic Effects

All distribution projects shall be assessed on their economic

effects as follows

Land tenure issues

Effect on property values
Permanent loss of land (opportunity cost)
Effect on household incomes
Effect of secondary and downstream economic activity
Sustainability of chosen technology
Compliance with international conventions/protocols
Compliance with national policy, law and standards
Compliance with voluntary standards (SAZ, ISO 9 000, 14
000)
Any other economic effects that could be of major
concern to ZEDC or any segment of society

[Link] Typical Impacts

During construction and operation of distribution projects

and/or infrastructure special care and mitigation measures
should be maintained to reduce or eliminate possible
physical, social and economic environmental impacts.

[Link] Physical Impacts

Physical impacts that could arise due to the construction and

operation of distribution infrastructure are:

Damage to cultural resources and sites

Visual intrusion from equipment and infrastructure
Soil erosion from disturbed areas
Degradation of surface water bodies by increase in
suspended particulates
Noise
Contamination of ground water or surface water
Soil contamination
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 179 -

Any other physical impacts that could be of major

concern to ZEDC or any segment of society

ZEDC shall put in place management steps to mitigate against

negative possible physical impacts arising from the
construction and operations of the transmission
infrastructure. Such management steps shall include but not
necessary limited:

Ensuring appropriate siting

Minimizing clearing and blending vegetation
Ensuring that safety procedures are followed
Provision of surface drainage to meet quality
standards before discharge of damaging effluent
Cleaning up of spills (chemicals, diesel, oil, etc)
Avoiding/minimizing penetration of aquifers
Controlling surface run off
Selecting appropriate site(s) for solid waste
disposal
Availability of monitoring instruments to be placed
at sensitive areas
Carrying out appropriate surveys prior to
disturbance to determine vulnerability of soil
erosion
Utilizing technologies that minimize waste creation
Minimize pollution at source
Routine monitoring air quality
Routine monitoring of water quality in rivers
upstream and downstream of discharge point
Routine monitoring of ground water through
boreholes
Minimizing dust and particulate emissions
Installation of appropriate pollution abatement
devices on diesel equipment to ensure minimal
emissions

[Link] Social Impacts

Social impacts that could arise due to the construction and

operation of transmission and subtransmission
infrastructure are:
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 180 -

Disturbance of both humans and wildlife by noise from

activities
Injury/loss of life from accidents
Competition with local cultures, traditions and life
styles
Increased demands on services and facilities in local
communities
Social and cultural conflicts affect community
stability
Secondary population growth
Displacement of local communities
Health problems associated with dust, smoke, STD,
HIV, cholera, malaria, dysentery etc
Development of schools, hospitals and recreational
facilities

ZEDC shall put in place management steps to mitigate against

negative possible social impacts arising from the construction
and operations of the transmission infrastructure. Such
management steps shall include but not necessary limited to:

Minimizing conflict by employing locals where feasible

Maintaining open dialogue with communities
Ensuring that affected people are informed in advance and
their rights communicated to them. In the event of
problems, ensuring that problems are promptly addressed.
Taking stock of population to be displaced, making an
inventory of property loss and giving adequate compensation.
Liaising with local community to assess their needs and
ensuring minimal conflict between employees and the locals.
Encourage project workers to participate in community
affairs and open periodic dialogue with community leaders.
Ensuring that safety equipment is available at all times.
Ensuring that sites of cultural significance are demarcated
and fenced or catalogued moved and re-sited.
Ensuring that historical resources are archived or
demarcated from the operating site
Utilizing appropriate dust control measures – waste spraying,
wind breaks.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 181 -

[Link] Economic Impacts

Economic impacts that could arise due to the construction

and operation of transmission and subtransmission
infrastructure are:

Land use conflicts

Induced development of other economic sectors
Availability of a ready market for products
Employment opportunities for local population

ZEDC shall put in place management steps to mitigate against

negative possible economic impacts arising from the
construction and operations of the transmission
infrastructure. Such management steps shall include but not
necessary limited to:

Consulting with local land users in siting access roads and

other utilities
Allowing other land uses on site if they are compatible
with the operations.
Employing as many locals as skills requirements permit
Encouraging growth of secondary activities like shops,
green markets, etc.
 Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 182 -

SECTION 11

11 WAYLEAVES AND SERVITUDES

11.1 Obtaining Wayleaves and Servitudes

A distributor shall place any line or cable above or below ground

into, out of or across any land including State land. Wayleaves shall
be obtained in compliance with the Electricity Act and relevant
regulations.
Property developers shall provide for servitudes for use by the
distributor to place lines/cables. This shall be at no cost to the
distributor. Land shall also be made available for substations sites
and no fees should be levied against the distributor.

Should future subdivisions / consolidations / building / road

constructions require alteration / rerouting / lowering / exposing /
repositioning then the cost shall be borne by the developer /
owner.

11.2 Clearance and Maintenance of Wayleaves and Servitudes

11.2.1 Purpose

This clause provides for the control of trees

adjacent to electricity lines. The purpose of this
clause is to protect the security of the supply of
electricity and the safety of the public.

11.2.2 General Information Notice to Customers

In order to ensure that land owners are aware of

their responsibilities and liabilities under this Code,
Distributors are required to issue to electricity
customers, at least annually, an information notice
outlining the dangers of contact between trees and
live power lines and the operation of this Code
(particularly clause 17.2).
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 183 -

11.2.3 Hazard Warning Notice

When a Distributor becomes aware of a tree growing within the

specified separation distance of a power line, the Distributor
may give a hazard warning notice to the tree owner. The
purpose of a hazard warning notice is to warn a tree owner that
a tree encroaches a notice zone and must not encroach a growth
limit zone. The regulations prescribe the content of the hazard
warning notice.

11.2.4 Cut or Trim Notice

If a Distributor becomes aware of a tree encroaching the

growth limit it must issue a cut or trim notice. The purpose of a
cut or trim notice is to notify a tree owner that a tree
encroaches a growth limit zone and must be trimmed. Once a cut
or trim notice has been issued, the tree owner must, within
prescribed time limits, have the tree cut or trimmed so that it
does not encroach on the notice zone.

11.2.5 Debris

If a tree owner is required to have a tree cut or trimmed, the

tree owner must remove or tidy any resulting debris in such a
way that it does not affect the use or enjoyment of any
adjoining land by its owner or occupier. A Distributor is not
required to remove debris caused by any cutting or trimming
that it undertakes.

11.2.6 Underground Cable Safety

To permit the safe repair or operation of an underground cable,

a Distributor may sever and remove any tree roots that are
within 1.5 metres of that cable.

11.2.7 Obligation to Remove Danger to Persons or Property from

Trees Damaging Lines

A Distributor must, without delay, undertake any necessary

work on a tree (including the roots) if the distributor becomes
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 184 -

aware that there is immediate danger to persons or property

from a line.

[Link] For the purposes of removing danger to persons or property, a

Distributor may cut or trim the tree to the extent necessary to
remove the danger.

[Link] However if the Distributor deems it necessary it may cut or trim

the tree so that it no longer encroaches on the Distributor’s line.

11.2.8 Liability for Costs

[Link] When a Distributor undertakes any work to remove a source of

immediate danger, the tree owner is liable for the direct costs
of that work if the tree owner has failed to abide by the
provisions of this Code.

[Link] A Distributor may claim direct costs from the tree owner where
damage to a line arises (directly or indirectly) from a tree
owner's failure to comply with the requirements of this Code or
with the conditions of an order made by an arbitrator. The
costs shall be recovered as a debt due.

[Link] A Distributor is liable for any costs of remedying any damage

caused to a line if the distributor fails to comply with the
requirements of this Code, such as the requirement to issue a
cut or trim notice when a tree encroaches the growth limit
zone.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 185 -

SECTION 12

12 SAFETY

12.1 Public Safety

12.1.1 The Distributor shall follow good practices in operating and

maintaining the distribution system and shall also abide by Safety
Rules and regulations to ensure maximum safety to the public.

12.1.2 The Distributor shall implement a safety program including training

and regularly conducted audits. The program shall include public
education and public safety awareness campaigns.

12.2 Employees and Equipment

12.2.1 The Distributor shall adhere to Zesa Holdings Electrical Safety

Rules and any relevant equipment operational safety procedures.

12.2.2 A copy of the Electricity Act (Chapter 13:19) and the Zesa
Holdings Electrical Safety Rules shall be kept available for
reference in all relevant premises occupied by the Distributor.

12.3 NON-COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE

12.3.1 Distributor’s obligation to remedy

[Link] If the licensee breaches this Code, it shall remedy that breach as
soon as is practicable.

12.4 Notification to customers

12.4.1 If a licensee becomes aware of its failure to comply with any

obligation under the Code, which can reasonably be expected to
have a material, adverse impact on a customer, it shall:
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 186 -

12.4.2 notify each customer likely to be adversely affected by the non-

compliance within five business days:

12.4.3 undertake an investigation of the non-compliance as soon as is

practicable;

12.4.4 advise the customer of the steps the licensee is taking to comply.

12.4.5 If a Distributor becomes aware of a breach of the Distribution

Code by a customer, which is not of a trivial nature, the licensee
shall notify the customer, in writing, of:

[Link] Details of the non-compliance and its implications, including any

impact on the licensee and other customers;

[Link] Actions that the customer could take to remedy the non-
compliance;

[Link] A reasonable time period within which compliance shall be

demonstrated;

[Link] Any consequences of non-compliance.

12.5 Customer’s obligation to remedy

The customer shall use best endeavours to remedy any non-
compliance with this Distribution Code within the time period
specified in any notice of non-compliance sent by the Licensee
in accordance with clause 12.2.2

12.6 COMPLIANCE PLANS

12.6.1 Statement of Compliance

Within six (6) months from the effectivity of the Distribution
Code, Distributors shall submit to ZERC a statement of their
compliance with the technical specifications, performance
standards, and financial capability standards prescribed in the
Distribution Code.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 187 -

12.6.2 Submission of Compliance Plans

Distributors which do not comply with any of the prescribed
technical specifications, performance standards, and financial
capability standards shall submit to the ZERC a plan to comply,
within three (3) years, with said prescribed technical
specifications, performance standards, and financial standards.

12.7 Compliance with the Zimbabwe Grid Code

12.7.1 The Licensee shall comply with the provisions of the Zimbabwe
Grid Code in so far as applicable to it.

12.7.2 The Commission may (following consultations with the

Transmission Company responsible for the Grid Code) issue
directions relieving the licensee of its obligations under
paragraph 1 in respect of such parts of the Grid Code and to such
extent and subject to such conditions as may be specified in
those directions.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 188 -

DEFINITIONS

In this Code the following words and phrases shall, unless more particularly
defined in a Section, or Subsection of the Code, have the following meanings:

Accountable Manager. A Senior Authorized Person who is appointed by

ZESA according to the ZESA Electrical Safety Rules

Active Energy. The integral of Active Power with respect to time, measured in
Watthour (Wh) or multiples thereof. Unless otherwise qualified, the term
“Energy” refers to Active Energy.

Active Power. The time average of the instantaneous power over one period of
the electrical wave, measured in Watts (W) or the root-mean-square (RMS) or
effective value of the voltage and the RMS value of the in- phase component of
the current. In a three – phase System, it is the sum of the Active Power of the
individual phases.

Apparent Power. The product of the root-mean-square (RMS) or effective

value of the current and the root-mean-square value of the voltage. For AC
circuits or systems, it is the square root of the sum of the squares of the
Active Power and Reactive Power, measured in volt-ampere (VA) or multiples
thereof.

Average Receivables. The average of the accounts receivable at the beginning

and end of the period.

Average Total Assets. The average total assets at the beginning and end o the
period.

Back up Protection. A form of protection that operates independently of the

specified Components in the primary protection system. It may duplicate the
primary protection or may be intended to operate only if the primary protection
fails or temporarily out of service and operates with a time delay.

Backup Reserve. Refers to a Generating Unit that has Fast start capability and
can synchronize with the Grid to provide its declared capacity for a minimum
period of eight (8) hours. Also called Cold Standby Reserve .

Balanced Three-Phase Voltages. Three sinusoidal voltages with equal

frequency and magnitude and displaced from each other in phase by an angle of
120 degrees.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 189 -

Black Start. The process of recovery from the total system blackout using a
Generating Unit with the capability to start and synchronize with the system
without an external power supply.

Circuit Breaker. A mechanical switching device, which is capable of making,

carrying for a specified time and breaking current under specified abnormal
circuit conditions, such as a short circuit.

Cold start. The starting of a generator after a prolonged shutdown period.

Completion Date. The date specified in the connection agreement or amended

connection agreement, when the user development is scheduled to be completed
and be ready for connection to the Distribution system.

Component. A piece of equipment, a line or circuit, a section of line or circuit, or

a group of items. this viewed as an entity for a specific purpose.
Connection Agreement. An agreement between a user and the Distributor (or
the Grid Owner), which specifies the terms and conditions pertaining to the
connection point in the Distribution System (or the Grid).

Connection Point. The point of connection of the user system or equipment to

the Distribution system (for users of the distribution system).

Connection point Drawings. The drawings prepared for each connection point,
which indicate the equipment layout, common protection and control, and
auxiliaries at the Connection Point.

Control Center. A facility used for monitoring and controlling the operation of
the Grid or distribution system.

Customer. Any person or entity supplied with electric service under a contract
with the Distributor or Supplier.

Customer Demand Management. The reduction in the supply of electricity to a

Customer or disconnection of a customer in a manner agreed upon for
commercial purposes, between a customer and its Generator, Distributor or
Supplier.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 190 -

Customer Services. The day- to – day transactions between a Distributor and

its Customers including payment of bills, applications for
connection/disconnection, and customer complaints. It also includes any activity
that the Distributor does to add value or efficiency to these transaction.

Customer Service Program. The totality of the Customer Services offers by a

Distributor.

Customer Services Standards. A listing of Customer Services that measure

how effectively a Distributor conducts its day-to-day transactions with its
Customers. Customer Service Standards are intended to ensure Customer
satisfaction.

Daily Sales. Total annual sales divided by 365 days.

Debt Ratio. The ratio of total liabilities to total assets.

Degradation of Distribution System. A condition resulting from use

Development or a Distribution System expansion project that has a material
effect on the Distribution System or the system of other Users and which can
be verified through Distribution Impact studies.

Demand. The Active Power and/or Reactive Power at a given instant or averaged
over a specified interval of time, that is actually delivered or is expected to be
delivered by an electrical equipment or supply system. It is expressed in watts
(w) and/or VARs and multiples thereof.

Demand Control. A reduction in demand for the control of the Frequency when
the Grid is in the Emergency state. This includes Automatic Load Dropping,
Manual Distribution Code December 2001 Load Dropping, demand disconnection
initiated by users, customer Demand Management, and voluntary Load
curtailment.

Demand Forecast. The projected Demand and Active Power related to each
connection Point in the Distribution System.

Distribution Code. The set of rules, requirements, procedures, and standards

governing Distribution utilities and users in the operation, maintenance and
development of their Distribution Systems. It also defines and establishes the
relationship of the Distribution systems with the facilities or installations of
the parties connected thereto.

Distribution of Electricity. The conveyance of electric power by a Distributor

through its Distribution System.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 191 -

Distribution system. The system of wires and associated facilities belonging to

a Distributor, extending between the delivery points on the transmission, sub-
transaction system or Generating plant connection and the point of connection
to the premises of the End user.

Embedded Generating Plant. A generating plant that is connected to a

Distribution system or the System of any User and has no connection to the
Grid.

Electrical Diagram. A schematic representation,using standard electrical

symbols,which shows the connection of equipment or power System components
to each other or to external circuits.

Embedded Generator. A person or entity that generates electricity using an

Embedded Generating plant.

End user. A person or entity requiring the supply and delivery.

Zimbabwe Electricity Regulatory Commission. The independent quasi-judicial

regulatory body created pursuant to electricity Act No. 13:19 which is mandated
to promote competition, encourage market development, ensure customer choice
and penalize abuse of market power in restructured electricity industry and
among other functions, promulgate and enforce the Zimbabwe grid code and the
Electricity Distribution code.

Fault Clearance Time. The time interval from fault inception until the end
of the arc extinction by the circuit breaker.

Financial Efficiency Ratio. A financial indicator that measures the

productivity in the entity’s use of its assets.

Flicker. The impression of unsteadiness of visual sensation induced by light

stimulus whose luminance or spectral distribution fluctuates with time.

Forced outage. An outrage that results from emergency conditions directly

associated with a Component requiring that it be taken out of service
immediately, either automatically or as soon as switching operations can be
performed. Also, an Outage caused by human error or the improper
operation of Equipment.

Franchise Area. a geographical area .

Frequency. The number of complete cycles of alternating current or voltage

per time, usually measured in cycle per second or Hertz.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 192 -

Frequency Control. A strategy used the system operator to maintain the

Frequency of the Grid within the limits prescribed by the Grid code .

Frequency Variation. The deviation of fundamental System Frequency from its

nominal value.

Generating plant. A facility, consisting of one or more Generating units, where

electric Energy is produced from some other form of Energy by means of a
suitable apparatus.

Grid Owner. The party who owns the Grid and is responsible for maintaining
adequate Grid capacity in accordance with the provisions of grid.

Grounding. A conducting connection by which an electrical circuit or equipment

to earth or to some conducting body of relatively large extent that services as
ground.

Guaranteed Standards. Refer to the customer services by which an electrical

circuit or Equipment connected to earth or to some conducting body of
relatively large extent that serves as ground.

Harmonics. Sinusoidal voltages and currents having frequencies that are

integral multiples of the fundamental frequency.

High Voltage ( HV). A voltage level exceeding 650V.

Implementing Safety Coordinator. The Safety Coordinator assigned by the

Distributor (or the User) to establish the requested Safety Precautions in the
User System (or the Distribution System).

Interest Cover. The ratio of earning before interest and taxes plus
depreciation to interest.

Interruption. The loss of service to a Customer or a group of Customers or

other facilities. An interruption is the result of one or more Component
Outages.

Interruption Duration. The period from the initiation of an interruption up to

the time when electric service is restored.

Isolation. The electrical separation of a part or Component from the rest of

the electrical System to ensure safety when that part or Component is to be
maintained or when electric service is not required.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 193 -

Large Customer. A customer with a demand of at least 300KVA or the

threshold value specified by ZERC.

Leverage Ratio. A financial indicator that measures how an entity is heavily in

debt.

Liquidity Ratio. A financial indicator that measure the ability of an entity to

satisfy its short-term obligations as they become due.

Load. An entity or an electrical or an electrical equipment that consumes

electrical energy.

Local Safety Instructions. A set of instructions regarding the Safety

Precautions on MV/ HV Equipment to ensure the safety of personnel carrying
out work or testing on the Distribution System.

Low Voltage (LV). A voltage level not exceeding 0 – 250Volts

Maintenance Program. A set of schedules, which are coordinated by the

Distributor and the System Operator, specifying planned maintenance for
equipment in the Distribution System or in any User System.

Manual Load Dropping (MLD). The process of manually and deliberately

removing pre-selected Loads from a power system, in response to an abnormal
condition, and in order to maintain the integrity of the System.

Medium Voltage (MV). A voltage level between 250V and 650V.

Ministry of Energy. The Government Ministry, which was provided with the
additional mandate under the Electricity Act Chapter 13:19 of supervising the
restructuring of the electricity industry, developing policies and procedures,
formulating and implementing programs, and promoting a system of incentives
that will encourage private sector investments and reforms in electricity
industry and ensuring an adequate and reliable supply of electricity.

Momentary Average Interruption Frequency Index (MAIFI). The total

number of momentary customer power interruption within a given period divided
by the total number of customers served within the same period.

Momentary Interruption. An interruption whose duration is limited to the

period required to restore service by automatic or supervisory controlled
switching operating or by manual switching at a location where an operator is
immediately available.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 194 -

Negative Sequence. One of the three sequence companies that represent an

unbalanced set of voltages or currents.

Non-Technical Loss. The component of system loss that is not related to the
physical characteristics and functions of the electrical system, and is caused
primarily by human error, whether international or not. Non-technical loss
includes the Energy lost due to pilferage, tampering of meters and erroneous
meter reading.

Normal state. The grid operating condition when the system frequency, voltage
and transmission line and equipment loading are within their normal operating
limits, the operating margin is sufficient and the grid configuration is such that
any fault current can be interrupted and the faulted equipment isolated from
the grid.

Overvoltage. A Long Duration Voltage variation where the RMS value of the
voltage is greater than or equal to 110 percent of the nominal voltage.

Point of grounding. The point on the distribution system or the user system at
which isolation can be established for safety purposes.

Point of isolation. The point on the distribution system or the user system at
which isolation can be established for safety purposes.

Power Factor. The ratio of Active Power to Apparent Power.

Power Quality. The quality of the voltage, including its frequency and
resulting current, that are measured in the Grid, Distribution System, or
any User System.

Reactive Energy. The integral of the Reactive Power with respect to

time, measured in VARh, or multiples thereof.

Reactive Power. The component of electrical power representing the

alternating exchange of stored energy (inductive or capacitive) between
two Systems, measured in VAR, or multiples thereof. For AC circuits or
Systems, it is the product of the RMS voltage and the RMS value of the
quadrature component of alternating current. In a three-phase system,
it is the sum of the Reactive Power of the individual phases.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 195 -

Reactive Power Capability Curve. A diagram which shows the Reactive

Power capability limit versus the Real Power within which a Generating
Unit is expected to operate under normal conditions.

Registered Data. Data submitted by a User to the Distributor Grid (or

owner) at the time of connection of the User System to the Distribution
System (or Grid).

Reliability. The probability that a System or Component will perform a

required task or mission for a specified time in a specified environment.
It is the ability of a power system to continuously provide service to its
Customers.

Safety Coordinator. A person designated/authorized by the Distributor (

or User) to be responsible for the coordination of Safety Precautions at
the Connection Point when work or testing is to be carried out on a
System which requires the provision of Safety Precautions for MV or HV
Equipment.

Safety Precautions. Refers to the Isolation and Grounding of MV or HV

Equipment when work or testing is to be done on the Distribution System

Safety Rules. The rules that seek to safeguard personnel working on the
equipment of the Generation,Transmission and Distribution Systems.

Scheduled Maintenance. The outage of a component or Equipment due to

maintenance, which is coordinated by the Distributor or user , as the case
may be.
Shut down. The condition of an Equipment when is de-energized or
disconnected from the system.

Significant Incident. It is an event on the distribution system of any

user that has a serious or widespread effect.

Site. Refers to a substation or switchyard in the grid, distribution

system of the user system where the connection point is situated.

Spinning Reserve. The component of contingency Reserve, which is

synchronized to the grid and ready to take load. Also called hot standby
reserve
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 196 -

Stability. The ability to the dynamic components of the power system to

return to a normal or stable operating point after being subjected to
some form of change or disturbance.

Standard Planning Data. The general data required by the Distributor

as part of the application for a connection agreement or Amended
connection agreement.

Supplier. Refers to any person or entity authorized by ZERC to sell,

broker, market or aggregate electricity to the end users.

Supply of Electricity. The sale of electricity by party other than a

generator or a Distributor or a Distributor in the franchise area of a
distribution utility using the wires of the Distribution.

Synchronized. The state when connected generating units or

interconnected AC systems operate at the same frequency and where the
phase angle displacements between their voltages vary about a stable
operating point.

System. Refers to the distribution system or any user system. Also, a

group of components connected or associated in a fixed configuration to
perform a specified solution.

System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI). The total

duration of sustained customer power interruption within a given period
divided by the total number of customers served within the same period.

System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIFI). The total

number of sustained customer power interruptions within a given period
divided by number of customers served within the same period.

System Loss. In a distribution system, it is the difference between the

electric energy purchased and or generated and the electric Energy sold
by the Distributor.

System Operator. The party responsible for Generation Dispatch, the

provision of Ancillary Services, and operation and control to ensure
safety, power Quality, stability, reliability and the security of the Grid.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 197 -

System Test. The set of tests which involves simulating conditions or

the controlled application of unusual or extreme conditions that may have
an impact on the Distribution System or the user system.

Technical Loss. The component of System Loss that is inherent in the

physical delivery of electric Energy. It includes conductor loss,
transformer core loss, and technical error in meters.

Test and Commissioning. Putting into service a System or Equipment

that has passed all required tests to show that the System or Equipment
was erected and connected in the proper manner and can be expected to
work satisfactorily.

Top-up. The Supply of Electricity by the Distributors to the Customer

on a continuing or regular basis to compensate for any shortfall between
the Customer’s total supply requirements and those met from other
sources.

Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). The ratio of the root-mean-square

value of the harmonic content to the root-mean-square value of the
fundamental quantity, expressed in percent.

Transformer. An electrical device or equipment that converts voltage

current from one level to another.

Transient Voltages. High-frequency Overvoltages caused by lightning,

switching of capacitor banks or cables, current chopping, arcing ground
faults, ferroresonance and other related phenomena.

Underfrequency Relay (UFR). An electrical relay that operates when

the System Frequency decreases to a preset value.

Undervoltage. A Long Duration Voltage Variation where the RMS value

of the voltage is less than or equal to 90 percent of the nominal voltage.

Voltage Control. The strategy used by the System Operator,

Distributor, or User to maintain the voltage of the Grid, Distribution
System, or the User System within the limits prescribed by the Grid
Code or the Distribution Code.
Voltage Dip. Has the same meaning as Voltage Sag.
Zimbabwe Distribution Code - 198 -

Voltage Sag. A Short Duration Voltage Variation where the RMS value
of the voltage decreases to between 10 percent and 90 percent of the
nominal value.

Voltage Unbalance. The maximum deviation from the average of the

three phase voltages divided by the average of the three phase voltages,
expressed in percent.

Voltage Variation. The deviation of the root-mean-square (RMS) value

of the voltage from its nominal value, expressed in percent.

Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission Company. The successor company

that assumed the authority and the responsibility of planning, maintaining,
constructing and centrally operating the high voltage transmission
system, including the construction of grid interconnection.