Published: 04 September 2013

ZESA Holdings has warned Zimbabweans to brace for increased load shedding outside the published schedule as the Hydro Cabora Bassa (HCB) is undertaking maintenance on its plant.

In a statement yesterday, Zesa said during this period, a total of about 250MW will be lost to the national grid as imports decrease from 300MW to around 50MW

"The Hydro Cahorra Bassa (HCB) is undertaking maintenance on its plant from the 31st of August 2013 to the 9th of September 2013.

"Customers are also advised that the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) will also be undertaking statutory maintenance this summer from the 9th of September 2013, and this will lead to a decline in local generation output," read the statement.

The authority said efforts were being made to alleviate the situation by way of imports where available.

"Customers will be updated of developments as the maintenance progresses, and in the meantime, are urged to use the available electricity very sparingly to minimise the effects and extent of load shedding."

Last year Zesa Holdings paid $10 million debt to Hydro Cabora Bassa and the Mozambican company agreed to ensure uninterrupted power supply if Zimbabwe reduced its debt to below $40 million.

Zimbabwe requires about 2 200 megawatts daily, but generates only 1 300MW.
- herald

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