Staff Writer
The country’s power utility, Zesa Holdings, says it plans to significantly boost its renewable energy capacity and battery storage infrastructure to address Zimbabwe’s chronic power shortages.
Zesa executive chairman Sydney Gata said the utility has identified several sites for solar power deployment and is currently conducting feasibility studies to ensure their bankability.
“Zesa is preparing a number of sites for deployment of its solar power generation. Studies are being taken to the bankability stage and these will be developed through a number of strategies including patronships. So far, 400 megawatts (MW) have been developed,” Gata said at a media briefing.
Gata highlighted that the El Niño-induced drought curtailed Kariba South Hydro’s generation from 1050 MW to an average of 272 MW, following a directive from the Zambezi River Authority.
Gata noted that ferrochrome companies in Zimbabwe are investing in renewable energy, including solar and wind power.
“Ferrochrome companies will be investing in renewable energy – solar and wind – commencing this year. In total, smelting companies have reached an advanced stage for construction of a total of 300 MW of solar and 100 MW of wind power,” he said.
To support the agricultural sector, he said Zesa has prioritised farming loads during periods of insufficient power generation.
The utility is also mobilising funding to install approximately 120 MW of solar power at productive farms. This initiative will not only alleviate the strain on the national grid but also enable farmers to generate excess electricity and sell it back to Zesa.
Gata further announced that Zesa is investing in a utility-scale battery energy storage system with a capacity of 1800 MW.
The system will provide three hours of 600 MW during peak morning and evening hours, helping to stabilise the grid and reduce load shedding.
In the medium term, Zesa anticipates a gradual increase in power generation from the Kariba Hydropower Station as water levels in the dam normalise over the next two to three years. The utility expects to reach a production level of around 700 MW from Kariba.
Zimbabwe has been grappling with a chronic energy crisis for several years, characterised by frequent power outages and load shedding.
The country’s reliance on hydropower has made it vulnerable to fluctuations in rainfall and water levels, particularly during droughts.
The energy crisis has had a significant impact on the economy, hindering industrial production, agricultural activities, and essential services.
To address these challenges, the government has been exploring alternative energy sources, with a particular focus on renewable energy.
Zesa’s ambitious renewable energy plans have the potential to significantly improve Zimbabwe’s energy security and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
By diversifying its energy mix and investing in innovative technologies, the utility aims to address the country’s longstanding power challenges and promote sustainable development.
