Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe’s drive to expand renewable energy generation has received a major boost after the Great Zimbabwe Hydro Power Project secured a 25-year power purchase and offtake agreement with the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), paving the way for increased investment in clean energy and improved electricity supply.
The project’s Coordinator, Hilbert Chipfumbo, said the agreement marks a significant milestone in the development of the 5-megawatt hydroelectric facility, providing long-term certainty for investors while strengthening Zimbabwe’s quest for energy security.
“The development of the 5-megawatt Great Zimbabwe Hydro Power Project represents a significant milestone in Zimbabwe’s efforts to expand renewable energy generation and strengthen national energy security,” said Chipfumbo.
He added that the long-term agreement with ZETDC guarantees a reliable market for the electricity generated by the plant, enhancing the project’s financial sustainability.
“We have signed a 25-year power purchase and offtake agreement with the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company. This guarantees a long-term market for electricity generated by the plant, improves the project’s financial viability and ensures that clean, renewable energy is fed into the national grid,” he said.
Chipfumbo noted that the project is expected to play an important role in addressing Zimbabwe’s growing electricity demand while reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
“The project will contribute meaningfully to improving electricity supply and meeting the country’s increasing energy needs through sustainable power generation,” he said.
The hydroelectric facility forms part of the country’s broader strategy to diversify its energy mix by harnessing renewable resources such as hydropower, solar, wind and biomass.
The Government has prioritized renewable energy development under the National Renewable Energy Policy and the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), with the objective of increasing access to affordable, reliable and environmentally sustainable electricity.
Zimbabwe has experienced recurring power shortages in recent years due to rising demand, ageing infrastructure and the impact of climate change on water levels at major generation facilities such as the Kariba Hydroelectric Power Station.
These challenges have accelerated efforts to attract private sector investment into Independent Power Producer (IPP) projects, particularly in renewable energy.
The Great Zimbabwe Hydro Power Project is expected to complement these national efforts by adding clean electricity to the national grid while supporting Zimbabwe’s transition towards a more resilient and diversified energy sector.
Once operational, the project is also expected to stimulate economic activity, create employment opportunities during construction and operation, and contribute to sustainable development in the surrounding communities.
*New Ziana*
