Staff Reporter
ZESA Holdings is set to bring 100 MW of new power capacity online by mid-2025, as part of a broader strategy to enhance the nation's electricity supply. This comes as the utility ramps up efforts to develop both thermal and renewable energy projects across Zimbabwe.
In an announcement, ZESA Executive Chairman Dr. Sydney Gata revealed that construction will begin in the third quarter of this year on a 720 MW thermal power station, spearheaded by a leading Ferrochrome company, is designed to meet the energy needs of the ferrochrome sector.
"The thermal power station will not only provide self-supply for the company, ensuring that their operations run smoothly without interruptions, but it will also supply power to other ferrochrome producers in the region. This is a significant development because it means that we are not only addressing the needs of a single entity but creating a more robust and reliable power network for the entire ferrochrome sector,”
“ This collaboration among producers will help stabilize the energy supply, reduce dependence on the national grid, and ultimately support the growth and sustainability of the ferrochrome industry," said Dr. Gata.
Dr Gata also highlighted Ferrochrome plans to invest in renewable energy.
“In addition to our focus on thermal power, Ferrochrome companies are making significant strides in renewable energy. We are committed to sustainability, and as part of this effort, these companies are set to begin constructing 300 MW of solar power and 100 MW of wind power. These projects, which are expected to kick off later this year, will play a crucial role in diversifying our energy mix and reducing our carbon footprint,” he added.
To further support Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, ZESA is prioritizing power supply to farmers, especially during periods of high demand.
"We are mobilizing financing to install 150 MW of solar power at productive farms. This initiative will reduce the load on the national grid and allow farmers to contribute excess energy back to the system," Dr. Gata explained.
As part of its commitment to food security, ZESA has increased the dedicated power supply for winter wheat farmers from 100 MW to 150 MW as of August 2024.
"These farmers have been spared from load shedding, except in cases of technical faults. Additionally, we have reinforced the network and installed switchgear to ensure reliable power supply for winter wheat production," Dr. Gata noted.
Vandalism of electricity infrastructure remains a major hurdle for ZESA. Over the past five years, the utility has recorded 7,186 cases of vandalism, resulting in losses amounting to $24.4 million. "The theft of copper and aluminum conductors, cables, transformer oil, pylons, and transformers is severely affecting our operations," Dr. Gata told the media.
Despite these challenges, ZESA remains committed to strengthening Zimbabwe’s power supply through a combination of new projects, technological upgrades, and strategic partnerships.
