Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Doctor of Business Administration (D.B.A.)

School

Management

Advisor

Chris G. Beehner

Abstract

Interruptions of hydroelectric energy damage equipment and reduce worker productivity. Manufacturing leaders in Zambia who lack strategies to manage hydroelectricity interruptions risk financial losses. Grounded in contingency theory, the purpose of this qualitative multiple case study was to explore strategies that some manufacturing leaders use to manage hydroelectricity interruptions. The participants were six managers from different manufacturing industries based in Lusaka, Zambia, who implemented strategies to manage hydropower interruptions. Data collection involved semistructured interviews and review of company documents, company websites, and publications from the Zambia Association of Manufacturers related to managing hydroelectricity power interruptions. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Four themes emerged: managing stock gaps, use of generators (turn-time), managing cost of labor input, and investment in stabilizers and storage facilities. Key recommendations include investment in alternative power generating equipment and upgrading of plant transformers. The implication for positive social change includes the potential to create jobs and improve the local economy and subsequent tax base.

Included in

Business Commons

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