Staff Reporter
Innscor Africa’s subsidiary, Colcom Foods, has been granted a license by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) to establish a 1-megawatt solar power plant at its Workington facility in Harare. This move is aimed at mitigating the impact of persistent power outages and reducing energy costs for the company.
In a statement, ZERA spokesperson Mr. TafadzwaMusarara emphasised the importance of private sector involvement in renewable energy projects, stating, “This project is an important step toward achieving Zimbabwe’s energy security. ZERA fully supports Colcom’s commitment to utilising sustainable energy sources to power its operations. Such initiatives are aligned with our national strategy to diversify the energy sector and reduce the country’s reliance on the national grid.”
The solar plant will generate electricity exclusively for Colcom’s operations, ensuring a stable power supply. This initiative reflects a broader trend among Zimbabwean businesses seeking to address the country’s electricity challenges by investing in renewable energy solutions.
Mr. Musarara further highlighted the role of businesses in addressing the power crisis, adding, “The role of the private sector in energy generation cannot be overstated. Colcom’s move is an example of how industries can play a pivotal role in providing sustainable power alternatives. This is a significant step that will not only enhance their operations but also contribute to the stability of the country’s power system.”
As companies like Zimplats, Schweppes, and Caledonia Mining increasingly adopt solar energy to achieve greater energy stability, Colcom’s decision serves as a model for others in the industry. The adoption of renewable energy sources provides a buffer against unreliable power supplies and helps businesses maintain consistent operations.
By investing in solar power, Colcom is contributing to the national efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on the traditional power grid. This move is expected to enhance the company’s energy security while setting a precedent for other businesses to explore sustainable energy solutions.
Musarara concluded by stating, “This is not just about Colcom; it’s about the future of Zimbabwe’s energy landscape. The success of such projects will inspire more businesses to invest in renewable energy, further promoting the growth of the green energy sector.”
Colcom’s solar project underscores the increasing recognition of renewable energy as a viable solution to Zimbabwe’s power challenges. As more companies adopt sustainable energy practices, the cumulative impact is expected to contribute significantly to the stabilisation of the national power supply.
