Hwange Power Station's older units to undergo major rehab

Published: 11 hours ago

Hwange Thermal Power Station is set for a significant upgrade, with Cabinet approving the contracting of Jindal (Private) Limited to rehabilitate six older units commissioned in the 1980s. The project, to be implemented over the next four years under a public-private partnership between the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) and Jindal, will follow a Rehabilitate, Operate and Transfer (ROT) model.

The refurbishment will involve replacing key equipment on Units 1 to 6, including turbines and generators. Originally commissioned between 1983 and 1989, the six units had a combined capacity of 920MW but are currently generating only about 300MW due to age-related mechanical faults. Upon completion, Hwange is expected to achieve a total generation capacity of approximately 1,500MW, combining the refurbished 920MW with the 600MW from the newer Units 7 and 8.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said the rehabilitation would significantly improve national electricity supply, reducing load shedding and providing reliable power for industries and households. "Reviving Hwange Power Station's first six units will benefit Zimbabwe by significantly increasing the national electricity supply, thereby reducing load shedding and ensuring reliable power for industries and households," Dr Muswere said.

Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo added that the six units, which were frequently on and off, currently produced between 300MW and 600MW depending on operational status. He confirmed that Jindal will invest US$450 million in the project, with a joint committee overseeing the flow of funds to ensure transparency and adherence to normal banking channels.

The first four years of the project have been allocated to completing the rehabilitation of all six units, with a sequential plan already established. Any refinements necessary to satisfy both Jindal and ZPC will be addressed as the project progresses.

The refurbishment is part of broader government efforts to boost domestic power generation, following the successful synchronisation of Units 7 and 8 in 2023. Increased local generation is expected to reduce reliance on electricity imports from Zambia, Mozambique, and South Africa, ease load shedding, enhance industrial output, and save millions of dollars currently spent on imported power.
- The Herald

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