ZESA Holdings has reassured Zimbabweans that efforts are underway to address technical faults at the Hwange Power Station that have led to widespread power outages.
A statement issued by the company on Wednesday explained that the outages are also being compounded by reduced electricity generation at Kariba Power Station due to low water levels.
“ZESA Holdings would like to advise its valued stakeholders that the national power grid is currently experiencing reduced electricity generation capacity due to a technical fault at Hwange Power Station,” the statement read.
“This has been further compounded by low generation capacity at Kariba Power Station, resulting from low water levels. Our technical teams are actively working to resolve the fault at Hwange to minimize the impact on our customers. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused.”
Despite current challenges, Zimbabwe’s energy capacity is set for a significant boost in 2025, with the commissioning of nine public and private power generation projects expected to add 2,690 MW to the national grid. These projects aim to reduce power outages and meet the increased demand spurred by higher industrial activity.
Key projects include the 800 MW Hwange repowering project by Indian company Jindal, scheduled for completion by December 2025. This initiative will restore all six older units at Hwange to optimal performance. Additionally, private power stations are advancing, such as the Titan project, set to produce 720 MW, the 300 MW Zhong Jin Heli project, and the 270 MW ZZE project, all in Hwange.
Beyond Hwange, other private projects include the Jinan 200 MW station in Gweru, the Xintai 100 MW station in Beitbridge, the Afrochine 100 MW station in Chegutu, and two Dingneng Solar projects contributing 100 MW each in Manhize and Mamina.
The investments represent a transformative shift for Zimbabwe’s energy sector, spurred by President Mnangagwa’s government and designed to provide long-term stability for Zimbabwe’s power grid, enabling economic growth and improving resilience against future outages.
Source: https://energynewsafrica.com