ZESA Holdings subsidiary company ZENT is set to embark on the establishment of a solar photovoltaic (PV) manufacturing plant aimed at not only address the country’s energy needs but also to catalyze socio-economic development and environmental sustainability. The company’s Managing Director Godfrey Mugaviri explained the manifold benefits of the initiative, highlighting its significance in decarbonizing the economy and mitigating the challenges posed by climate change.
“Benefits obviously will improve the security of supply and ensure we march towards universal access to electricity by all Zimbabweans. This will also decarbonise our economy and mitigate against climate change challenges. This will also accelerate total electrification of our nation, create employment, promote rural industrialization and improve food security especially when these technologies are deployed in agricultural sectors. It will also improve the quality of life of our citizens,” Mugaviri said.
With Zimbabwe committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, Mugaviri highlighted the pivotal role of the project in aligning with the country’s revised nationally determined contribution target of a 40% per capita emissions reduction across all sectors by 2030. Currently, the energy sector accounts for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions, primarily through thermal power generation, residential usage, road transportation, and agriculture.
As a mitigatory measure Mugaviri noted the implementation of key policies, including the Renewable Energy Policy and the Biofuels Policy, aimed at driving renewable energy projects and programs. Mugaviri highlighted the importance of conducting a comprehensive feasibility study to ensure the project’s viability and to determine its precise cost.
“You will also appreciate that Zent has completed a feasibility study of the solar panel market in Zimbabwe. In brief, this study shows that there is huge market potential for solar panels infrastructure. “So, while we have a budget, we leave the supply market to determine related costs based on our procurement processes. Otherwise we run the risk of pre-empting figures to potential suitors ,” he said
Research conducted by the Zimbabwe Energy Council shows the significant renewable energy potential within the country, with an estimated 1,872 megawatts of power available and comes at a critical juncture when Zimbabwe faces an electricity deficit ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 megawatts, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions.
