Published: 8 hours ago

Zimbabwe is witnessing a major shift in its energy sector as private power producers, mining companies and independent developers increasingly take centre stage in expanding electricity generation capacity.

More than 600MW of new power generation projects are currently under construction, with hundreds more megawatts expected to come online in the next two years.

Speaking during a visit by Parliament's Public Accounts Committee to Hwange Power Station on Saturday, Cletus Nyachowe said private investment was playing a critical role in strengthening the national grid and reducing dependence on electricity imports.

"Private players are no longer waiting on the sidelines. They are building power plants, funding substations and laying transmission lines. This is a genuine public-private partnership transforming our energy sector," he said.

Nyachowe said private coal-fired and solar projects were progressing across the country.

He revealed that Zhongjin Heli had already commissioned the first 100MW phase of its thermal power project, while a second 135MW phase targeted for completion by September 2026 was now 45 percent complete.

Another private developer, Sunny Jinlong, is constructing a 90MW thermal plant near Norton, with the project currently at 35 percent completion.

On renewable energy projects, Nyachowe said the 50MW Mapanzure Solar project, a joint China-Zimbabwe investment, was now 70 percent complete and expected to be commissioned in June 2026.

Mining giant Zimplats has already commissioned 35MW of its planned 80MW solar project, while construction of the remaining 45MW phase is progressing.

Nyachowe also said Power Ventures had resumed work on its 25MW solar plant near Victoria Falls, with the project now 85 percent complete.

Private investment is also extending into transmission and distribution infrastructure.

Under a Bridging Finance Agreement with Bulawayo Mining Company, work on the Springs 20/30MVA transformer project is now 45 percent complete.

Meanwhile, Zambezi Gas and Coal Mining Company is financing the installation of 88kV and 33kV bay equipment for an existing transformer at Hwange Local.

Nyachowe said the Blanket Mine 132kV transmission project was entirely driven by private mining demand.

The project involves construction of a 26km transmission line from Gwanda substation to Blanket Mine, including a 50/75MVA transformer.

He added that Sandawana Mine was also financing a two-phase transmission project linked to Zvishavane.

At Karo Resources, work on a 175MVA transformer installation at Selous and a 35km transmission line is now 65 percent complete, with commissioning expected during the third quarter.

Nyachowe further revealed that the Houyontong (Bijou) 100MW solar project was now 45 percent complete, with power plant construction already underway.

According to ZESA, total private-led power projects currently under construction amount to 635MW, while another 730MW is nearing financial closure.

"That gives us 1,365MW of new capacity by December 2026. By December 2027, we target zero power imports," Nyachowe said.

The projects are expected to significantly improve electricity availability, reduce load shedding and strengthen Zimbabwe's long-term energy security.
- The Herald