Zimbabwe, a mineral-rich country blessed with an abundance of sunshine and water, is poised to become a hub for renewable energy investments in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and beyond, as it seeks new investment in the energy sector, particularly in solar power generation, hydropower production, and other clean energy sources.
Speaking at the SADC Industrialization Week Investment Conference under the theme “Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustainable Economic Growth and Development Towards an Industrialized SADC,” Vice President Dr. Constantino Chiwenga stated that Zimbabwe is well-positioned to capitalize on its vast renewable energy potential.
“Zimbabwe’s infrastructure upgrades, energy sector opportunities, and rich mineral resources offer diverse investment prospects for the SADC region and the world at large. Zimbabwe is open to new investments in the energy sector and investors can explore opportunities in Solar Power generation,” he said.
In 2025, the government wants to generate 1100 MW of renewable energy, with no specific breakdown provided, although solar is projected to play a significant role, and in 2030, the goal is to reach 2200 MW of renewable energy, with a strong emphasis on solar.
The country has some of the world’s greatest sun irradiation levels, making it a perfect location for solar power generating. The Zambezi River, which forms the boundary between Zimbabwe and Zambia, has enormous hydropower production potential, and other micro hydro sites around the country provide further investment prospects.
In addition to solar and hydropower, Zimbabwe is looking into additional sustainable energy sources such as coal bed methane gas and gas-to-liquid manufacturing. This diversification of energy sources is projected to minimize the country’s dependency on fossil fuels while mitigating the effects of climate change.
“Clean Coal and coal-to- liquid production; Coal Bed Methane Gas and Gas-to-liquid production and Hydropower production particularly along the Zambezi River as well as mini hydro sites across the country among others,” he added.
The Zimbabwean government has created a favorable investment environment, with attractive incentives and policies in place to encourage foreign investment in the energy sector. Zimbabwe’s rich mineral resources, skilled workforce, and strategic location make it an appealing destination for investors looking to capitalize on Africa’s growing demand for renewable energy.
As the world transitions to a low-carbon economy, Zimbabwe is poised to play a significant role in the global renewable energy landscape. With a commitment to sustainable development and economic growth, the country is inviting investors to collaborate in harnessing its vast renewable energy potential and creating a brighter future for future generations.
