Power supply improves- ZESA

Harare (New Ziana) – Power utility ZESA said on Wednesday electricity supply had improved as a result of implementation of various measures, including coming online of the new thermal power unit, Hwange 7.

In an update, ZESA said the new Hwange Unit 7, though still going through commissioning tests, has been supplying 300MW to the national grid.

“ZESA Holdings is pleased to advise its valued Stakeholders of the improved power supply situation in the country, which has led to reduced incidences of load curtailment to most of our customer segments. This achievement was as a result of implementation of various measures and stabilization of performance of the Hwange Unit 7 which is undergoing commissioning tests and has been able to supply a full load of 300MW to the grid in some instances,” it said.

The power utility said barring unforeseen technical challenges, the country’s electricity supply situation is expected to continuously improve.

“Likewise, a lot of technical processes are ongoing in preparation of the impending synchronization of the Hwange Unit 8 which will add 300 MW to the grid,” said ZESA.

“Furthermore, we have been engaging with the Zambezi River Authority for more water allocation and we can confirm that we have been allowed to increase generation for limited periods,” it added.

Power cuts have worsened in recent months because of the low generation capacity at Kariba and Hwange power stations for various reasons, threatening the country’s economy.

The country requires over 2000 megawatts per day and regional imports are required to offset the deficit.

Meanwhile, the power company advised consumers that the prepaid token system would be offline on May 5th, 2023.
“Pursuant to our notice of 19 April 2023, we wish to remind our Valued Clients that the prepaid token purchase system will be unavailable from 5 May 2023 at 16:30hrs to 6 May 2023 at 00:00hrs to allow for scheduled major system maintenance. Clients are advised to make arrangements to purchase sufficient electricity tokens to sustain them during the service disruption period.

New Ziana