Zimbabwe has announced a significant plan to implement 18 power generation projects aimed at addressing the country’s chronic electricity shortages. This initiative was unveiled during the launch of a 720MW thermal power plant in Hwange, officiated by President Emmerson Mnangagwa on December 3, 2024.
The thermal plant, developed by Titan Energy Limited in partnership with the state-owned Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) Holdings, represents a multi-million-dollar investment. ZESA Chairman Sydney Gata outlined the nation’s comprehensive energy strategy at the event, stating, “We have 18 projects starting, which will collectively generate 4,000MW.” He noted that the country currently faces a 600MW deficit, and the new projects are expected to create surplus capacity for potential export opportunities.
Gata acknowledged the public's frustration due to recent nationwide blackouts and emphasized that these new initiatives aim to ensure long-term energy stability. He highlighted collaborations with other African power producers and Chinese investors to enhance Zimbabwe's energy sector.
This announcement follows widespread power outages in Zimbabwe and Zambia in late November, linked to disruptions in the interconnected power networks. Additionally, power generation at the Kariba Hydro Power Plant, a major source of Zimbabwe’s electricity, has been affected by severe drought conditions.
In April, Zimbabwe declared drought a national disaster, with President Mnangagwa seeking $2 billion in aid for millions impacted by food shortages. This crisis underscores the urgency of the new energy projects as critical steps toward stabilizing the economy and ensuring energy security.
The Hwange project is seen as a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe’s energy transformation, with officials expressing optimism that the planned initiatives will not only meet domestic power demands but also position the country as a regional energy exporter.