Lake Kariba Water Levels Raise Energy Generation H...

Lake Kariba Water Levels Raise Energy Generation Hopes

Oscar J Jeke

Zim Now Reporter

Rising water levels at Lake Kariba have sparked renewed optimism for increased electricity generation in Zimbabwe and Zambia, nations grappling with prolonged load-shedding challenges.

According to a report by the Zambezi River Authority, water volumes in the reservoir have surged to approximately 47% of capacity, thanks to recent precipitation. Forecasts indicate continued rainfall, which is expected to further replenish the lake, following a year of severe drought that significantly constrained power output.

The prolonged drought had drastically reduced electricity generation, disrupting households and industries alike. However, with the improved water levels, authorities are hopeful for a substantial boost in power generation at Kariba Dam.

The Kariba Dam, jointly managed by Zimbabwe and Zambia, boasts a total installed capacity of 1,626 megawatts. Production had slumped in recent years due to declining water levels. ZRA officials now project that if rainfall persists and levels stabilize, electricity supplies could improve significantly by mid-2025.

“The lake level is steadily increasing due to sustained rainfall on the reservoir and immediate catchment, closing the period under review at 475.87 meters (2.61% usable storage) on 6th January 2025, compared to 477.28 meters (12.32% usable storage) recorded on the same date last year,” reads the ZRA report.

For 2025, the river authority allocated 27 billion cubic meters of water to ZESCO Limited and the Zimbabwe Power Company for power generation at Kariba Dam. This allocation, split equally between the two entities, is subject to review depending on rainfall patterns in the first quarter of the year.

“Upon consultations with ZESCO Limited and ZPC, it was agreed that a total of 27 billion cubic meters of water would be allocated for power generation at Kariba Dam for the year 2025, with each utility receiving 13.5 billion cubic meters,” the ZRA statement clarified.

Despite the promising developments, experts warn against overreliance on the improved water levels. They emphasize the need for sustainable water resource management and investment in alternative energy sources to mitigate future risks associated with climate variability.