Zesa, Skypower in 300 MW solar power deal

Zim Now Writer

Zesa Holdings subsidiary, the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company, has confirmed an agreement with Skypower, an energy company in the United Arab Emirates, for solar plants that will add 300 MW to the National grid.

The agreement came at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi, which was attended by Energy and Development Minister, Edgar Moyo and other ministry officials.

The solar energy deal will see three power plants established across three provinces, a 100 MW in Manhizhe, Midlands Province, 70 MW in Mazowe District, Mashonaland Central Province and 130 MW in Matobo District, Matabeleland South Province.

Minister Moyo said the deal will enhance energy supply in the country, especially the moves to promote the green economy, adding that the deal is part of an already in place Memorandum of Understanding between the two parties.

“The solar power plants will directly feed into our national grid. This collaboration is a beacon of our dedication to enhancing energy security, achieving self-sufficiency and transitioning towards a green economy.

“The genesis of this transformative partnership began at COP27 in Sharm El Sheikh, where we signed a memorandum of understanding with Skypower for the development of 500MW of solar power.

“Today, we are not just advancing this agreement but also cementing our shared commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future,” he said.

ZETDC Acting Managing Director, Abel Gurupira said that the market is ready to handle the flow of energy from the solar plants, noting that payments will also be met when the need arises.

“Our market demand reflects a significant shortfall, which these projects will help alleviate.

“The market is, therefore, ready to take up this power. On financial readiness and cost reflective tariff, ZETDC has established a cost-reflective tariff, ensuring that we have the capacity to pay for the power generated.

This financial readiness is key to the sustainable success of the project.”