Government has received and adopted an update on the proposed Kariba Floating Solar Power Plant, a renewable energy project expected to add 600 megawatts to the national grid through private-sector investment.
The project, to be installed on Lake Kariba, is designed to complement and stabilise electricity output from the Kariba Hydropower Station, whose generation capacity has been repeatedly affected by fluctuating water levels caused by persistent hydrological constraints.
According to the Cabinet report, the floating solar initiative is expected to deliver several benefits, including improved power stability, enhanced climate resilience, and increased long-term sustainability of the Kariba power system.
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Authorities say daytime solar generation will help preserve water in the reservoir, allowing for increased hydropower production at night.
“The Kariba Floating Solar Power Plant is a novel development for Zimbabwe. It will be the first floating solar project, and scientists and engineers tell us that solar on water is more efficient than solar on land,” said Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister Anxious Masuka.
Government said the 600MW project will be rolled out in three phases over five years, beginning with a 150MW installation. Phase 1 is scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2026.
The project forms part of broader efforts to expand renewable energy sources and reduce vulnerability to climate-induced shocks affecting power generation.
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