Zimbabwe has recently seen an increase in power generation, surpassing 1,500 megawatts. This is because of higher output from the Hwange Thermal Power Station, which produced 740 megawatts. Officials want to soon connect and activate Unit 8 to complete the 600 megawatt expansion project.
Energy Minister Soda Zhemu validated the increased production, expressing that Zimbabwe may not experience power outages in the coming days. He said a reliable power supply is part of the government’s vision under the Second Republic.
The expansion of Units 7 and 8 at Hwange, part of a $1.5 billion undertaking, will contribute 600 megawatts, bringing capacity to 1,520 megawatts. With the latest expansion of Kariba South plant adding 300 megawatts, there will be enough electricity for industry, commerce and homes.
Business players say Zimbabwe needs to boost generation to 2,350 megawatts by 2025 to meet demand, especially from mining. The economy is recovering because of government policies helping sectors such as mining and agriculture.
Other power initiatives are planned, like refurbishing Hwange units 1 to 6 funded by a $310 million Indian facility. Efforts are slated to begin next year and end in 2025.
