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Zimbabwe is currently experiencing a critical electricity supply crisis that has profoundly affected its economic stability and the quality of life for its citizens.
The nation’s energy infrastructure is predominantly dependent on the ageing Hwange Thermal Power Station and the Kariba Hydroelectric Dam.
Both facilities are encountering significant operational inefficiencies attributed to insufficient maintenance protocols.
As of late 2024, Zimbabwe’s electricity generation capability has plummeted, frequently producing less than 35% of the total demand.
This shortfall has resulted in extensive power outages, with some regions enduring blackouts lasting up to 18 hours daily.
Let’s go back memory lane in 2010. The government aimed to enhance electricity generation capacity by investing in new power plants and refurbishing existing ones.
According to the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), “the country plans to increase its generation capacity through various projects, including the expansion of Kariba South Power Station and the construction of new thermal power stations.”
This strategy was intended not only to meet domestic demand but also to enable Zimbabwe to export surplus electricity to neighbouring countries, thereby generating revenue.
The significant question was how to effect the aforementioned. According to the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) in 2011, “the introduction of prepaid meters is expected to enhance revenue collection and improve cash flow,” which is crucial for financing operational costs and infrastructure upgrades.
By converting to a prepaid model, ZESA can better manage its resources and allocate funds towards critical maintenance and expansion projects.
The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), a utility provider in Zimbabwe, commenced the installation of prepaid electricity meters in August 2012.
Zimbabwe implemented a prepaid electricity metering system primarily to mitigate several critical issues within its energy infrastructure.
Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), encountered substantial fiscal challenges stemming from elevated levels of arrears and an escalating debt crisis.
By adopting a prepaid metering framework, ZESA sought to enhance liquidity by mandating that consumers remit payment for electrical energy prior to usage, thereby diminishing the likelihood of default on payments. 
According to the Electricity Act [Chapter 13:19], ZESA is responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity.
It is required to maintain an effective electricity supply system, but this must be done within the limits of its available resources and infrastructure capabilities. ZESA is not obligated to ensure uninterrupted power.
Despite this statute which is used as an excuse, the prevailing situation raises critical inquiries regarding the efficacy of the leadership within the power utility sector.
It prompts an examination of whether the current administration exhibits a deficiency in managerial competence or if there exists a substantial volume of covert and unmonitored operational activities. 
Over the past thirteen years, consumers have been remitting payments for electricity that ostensibly encompass costs associated with infrastructure maintenance and facility expansion.
Nevertheless, empirical evidence suggests a stagnation or regression in service quality; rather than witnessing enhancements, there is an observable decline in both power generation facilities and supporting infrastructure, exacerbated at a rate surpassing that observed prior to the implementation of prepaid metering systems.
How then did we move from bad to worse in terms of power supply after the introduction of the prepaid metering system? How then did we end up in even more debt?
This scenario engenders a plethora of unresolved inquiries, leaving stakeholders with more uncertainties than clarifications.
Power outages have raised operating expenses and reduced productivity in the commercial sector. Particularly badly struck are sectors like manufacturing and agriculture, where companies frequently run at reduced capacity or close completely during outages.
Food insecurity and economic loss result from farmers’ challenges with irrigation and processing perishable commodities.
Additionally, in this uncertain environment, small enterprises that rely on a steady power supply for machinery or refrigeration find it difficult to thrive.
As a result, the economy as a whole experiences slowed growth, which exacerbates poverty and reduces job prospects.
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) must fulfil its mandate of regulatory oversight over the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) and conduct thorough investigations into grievances raised by the populace.
As stakeholders in both civic and consumer capacities, it is our prerogative to demand accountability from the power utility entity.
The citizenry has expressed significant fatigue regarding the recurring narratives surrounding infrastructural maintenance issues and diminished water resource levels.
This story was contributed by Gaylord Munemo, an emergency response specialist.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Zimbabwe is having electricity problems because the power plants are old and not working well. There are many power outages lasting up to 18 hours each day. The government tried to fix this by using prepaid meters for electricity. But, things got worse, and now there is more debt and less power. Businesses are struggling when there is no electricity, causing economic problems. The government needs to check why things are not improving and make sure the power company is doing its job properly. People want answers and better electricity services to improve their lives.

Paying For Darkness: Citizens Struggle With Prepaid Power Failures

The Parliament of Zimbabwe has issued an apology to President Emmerson Mnangagwa following a power outage on Thursday after the 2025 National Budget presentation at the New Parliament Building in Mt Hampden.
The outage quickly became the subject of jokes and ridicule on social media, with many attributing it to the ongoing load shedding that has left businesses and households without electricity for over 18 hours daily.
Some social media users took delight in the fact that the power failure had affected the country’s leadership.
However, Parliament clarified in a statement that the power disruption was caused by thunderstorms and high winds, which affected overhead lines.
This led to tripping at a 132kV feeder that supplies power to a substation, which in turn powers the Mt Hampden area.
After consulting with onsite personnel and the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), Parliament confirmed that this was the cause of the power loss to the New Parliament Building and nearby areas at 15:25.
The backup generator at the building was also impacted by the power surge, causing it to lose its memory settings and fail to switch on automatically.
However, power was restored within five minutes after the generator was manually reset.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Parliament of Zimbabwe said sorry to the President for a power cut during a budget talk. People on social media made fun of it. The power cut happened because of a storm and strong winds. The power came back on after a few minutes.

Parliament Apologises For Power Outage During Budget Presentation

Residents of Bulawayo’s Ward 2 are struggling with severe electricity cuts that have disrupted their daily routines and forced significant adjustments, according to a recent survey conducted by local councillor Rendani Moyo.
In an interview with <a href="https://cite.org.zw/residents-struggle-to-cope-with-prolonged-electricity-cuts/">CITE</a>, Councillor Moyo revealed that areas such as North Trenance, Richmond, Aisleby, Good Hope Farms, and Northlynne have been the hardest hit in the ward. He said:
<blockquote>
Moderately affected areas include Queens Park West, Tegela and North End, while others have reported either minimal disruption or declined to respond.
</blockquote>
Moyo said he was motivated to conduct the survey following the persistent outages, which have left residents in a “state of despair.” Said the councillor:
<blockquote>
Residents are calling for accountability and meaningful solutions from authorities. For now, they have continued to navigate sleepless nights and troublesome days with no lights, no TV and no fridge in this heat.
The worst-affected residents have had to adjust their sleep patterns, staying up late to cook, iron clothes and charge devices. This has left many lethargic during the day due to lack of adequate sleep.
It is an unfortunate situation that could lead to a serious degradation of our environment as people resort to chopping down trees for firewood.
</blockquote>
Moyo said there was a need for the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) to provide a clear and fair load-shedding schedule. He said:
<blockquote>
What we need is an interactive platform where ZESA can have an honest conversation with residents about the state of power generation.
A transparent and balanced load-shedding schedule would go a long way in easing tensions.
</blockquote>
To cope with the power outages, many residents have resorted to alternative energy sources. Some are using firewood for cooking, rechargeable torches for lighting, and solar power where possible.
However, these solutions are not sustainable for everyone, as not all residents can afford the upfront costs of solar panels or gas.
Jason Huntley, a resident of the affected areas, told CITE that poor planning and corruption were to blame for the ongoing electricity crisis. He said:
<blockquote>
Our electricity crisis is 99 per cent man-made. Even if Kariba Dam was overflowing, we cannot rely on outdated equipment from 1959 designed for a population of 3.6 million to serve today’s 16 million.
There has been zero development in the energy sector, and those awarded tenders for minor solutions squander the funds.
There is not a single functional, pro-people, and pro-development ministry. All they care about are lavish perks while the rest of us suffer. Something has got to give. We are tired.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe depends on the Kariba South Hydro Power Station and Hwange Thermal Power Station to meet its electricity demands.
However, Kariba is currently generating just a tenth of its installed capacity due to low water levels in the Kariba Dam, while frequent breakdowns at Hwange have significantly disrupted power generation.
On Friday, November 22, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), a subsidiary of ZESA responsible for power generation, reported that Hwange was producing 1,084 MW, Kariba 124.5 MW, and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) 50 MW, bringing the total generation to 1,258.5 MW.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean urban dwellers in Bulawayo are facing long electricity cuts that disrupt their daily lives. Many areas are affected, and residents are struggling without lights, TV, or fridge. The Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) needs to provide a clear schedule for power cuts. Residents are using alternative energy sources like firewood and solar power. Some blame poor planning and corruption for the electricity crisis. The main power stations are producing less electricity, contributing to the problem. Overall, residents are calling for accountability and solutions to the ongoing electricity cuts.

Zimbabwe's Urban Dwellers Struggle To Cope With Prolonged Electricity Cuts

Zimbabweans should brace for extended load shedding as the country’s electricity supply falters due to failing infrastructure at Hwange Thermal Power Station and critically low water levels at Kariba Dam, reported <a href="https://cite.org.zw/power-crisis-deepens-as-minister-reveals-shocking-decline-in-electricity-generation/">CITE</a>.
Many households are experiencing blackouts lasting over 18 hours and in some cases, up to 24 hours, crippling businesses and halting productivity.
In the National Assembly on Wednesday, Energy and Power Development Minister Edgar Moyo attributed the worsening crisis to dysfunction at Zimbabwe’s key power generation facilities.
This came after MP Engineer Leslie Mhangwa, who chairs the Energy Portfolio Committee, questioned Moyo about the growing power shortages despite typically higher winter generation levels, which are now leading to more than 24 hours of continuous load shedding in some areas. Said Mhangwa:
<blockquote>
From the statistics from Zimbabwe Power Company, currently we are generating almost the same power we were generating in winter.
In winter, we had shorter load shedding with the high usage from winter and the winter wheat crop. Yet now we are having more than 24 hours load shedding.
Is there a crisis that has not been notified to the people or is it a new Government policy that has changed?
</blockquote>
Moyo, however, disputed Mhangwa’s assessment, presenting recent figures to illustrate the steep decline in electricity production. He said:
<blockquote>
The power that we were generating in winter is not the same as the power being generated now.
Currently, at Hwange 7 and 8, we are running at full throttle and generating 640 megawatts.
At Hwange Stages 1 and 2, during winter, we were at peak capacity at 420 megawatts. Now, we are doing 260 megawatts, and as a result of the breakdown of other units, we are now generating power using just three units.
In Kariba during that time, we were able to do up to 300 megawatts but now we are only able to do 100 megawatts.
We were allocated 8.4 billion cubic metres of water for Lake Kariba for use this year but, at some point, we had to get up to 500 megawatts from Kariba to meet the high demand.
That has significantly reduced the water levels, and we are now left with about 1 billion cubic litres of water, which can generate 100 megawatts up to the end of the year.
</blockquote>
Mhangwa pressed the minister about inconsistencies in power generation statistics, pointing out that on certain days, power output exceeded 1,100 megawatts, yet load shedding still occurred. He said:
<blockquote>
On 4 August 2024 we generated 1,128 (megawatts), in September 2024 we generated 917 and on 29 August 2024, we generated 1,108.
Today, we are supposed to have generated 1 128 but we are worse off today than when we were generating less. Something is inaccurate there, Hon. Minister.
</blockquote>
Moyo explained that daily power fluctuations are due to solar power, which varies with weather conditions.
On sunny days, solar systems generate maximum power, but on overcast or partly cloudy days, they generate less. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
Some of the power that is being referred to comes from solar, and solar by its nature is intermittent.
In terms of the power generated every day, you may find that you may vacillate between 20 and 70 megawatts depending on the climate [sic] conditions on that day.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Energy Minister in Zimbabwe said there is a big problem with making electricity. The Hwange power station and Kariba Dam don't work well. People are getting power cuts for long hours, which stops businesses from working. The Minister says there is not enough electricity being made, even though they used to make more in the winter. The Minister said the solar power is also not reliable. This means that the country is facing a big electricity problem, and things might get worse if they don't fix it soon.

Energy Minister Reveals Shocking Decline In Electricity Generation

The Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) has extended load shedding to over 24 hours on some days, following a reduction in electricity generation at its largest power plant, Hwange Thermal Power Station, and its most reliable station, Kariba Hydro Power Plant.
According to Zimbabwe Price Check, many neighborhoods experienced power outages lasting the entire day on Tuesday this week. It said:
<blockquote>
If you did not get any power last night in your neighbourhood, you are not alone. Many people in Harare have reported the same issue.
ZESA power was never restored yesterday evening. This means many households are now facing more than 24 hours of load-shedding.
</blockquote>
In some areas of the country, including Chitungwiza, electricity was restored just after 10 PM on Thursday, only for residents to be plunged back into darkness less than three hours later.
This week, ZESA confirmed the ongoing power shortage, attributing it to a technical fault at Hwange Power Station and low generation capacity at Kariba Power Station, which is struggling due to low water levels. The power utility said:
<blockquote>
ZESA Holdings would like to advise its valued stakeholders that the national power grid is currently experiencing reduced electricity generation capacity due to a technical fault at Hwange Power Station.
This has been further compounded by low generation capacity at Kariba Power Station, resulting from low water levels.
Our technical teams are actively working to resolve the fault at Hwange to minimise the impact on our customers.
</blockquote>
On Friday, November 15, ZESA’s power generation unit, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), reported that Hwange was producing 874 megawatts (MW), Kariba was generating 124.5 MW, and independent power producers were contributing 66 MW.
Despite these figures, many ZESA customers are puzzled by the severity of the load shedding, which seems disproportionate to the daily electricity generation statistics provided by ZPC.
In the past, load shedding was less severe when ZESA’s total generation was under 1,000 MW. This has led the public to question why they are facing 16-hour or longer blackouts now, when ZESA is generating more than half of the country’s electricity needs and also claims to be impoerting power from neighbouring countries.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZESA in Zimbabwe is cutting off electricity for more than 24 hours in some places. This is because their main power plants are not working well. People are experiencing long periods of darkness in their homes. ZESA says there is a technical problem at the Hwange Power Station and low water levels at the Kariba Power Station. They are trying to fix the problems. Even though there is still some electricity being produced, the blackouts are lasting longer. This is confusing for people because in the past, blackouts were not as long when there was less electricity being generated.

ZESA Extends Load Shedding To Over 24 Hours

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has attributed the country’s chronic electricity shortages to a combination of factors, including contractual agreements with neighbouring countries.
While Zimbabwe struggles to generate enough power to meet domestic demand, it is also bound by agreements to export electricity to countries like Namibia.
Victor Sibanda, a ZERA Research and Energy Efficiency Engineer, provided an overview of the power supply challenges during a media engagement with ZERA in Bulawayo on Wednesday.
He said that in 2023, Zimbabwe’s average electricity supply was around 1,640 megawatts, falling short of the average demand of 1,865 megawatts.
The situation worsened on November 5, 2024, when the country generated only 1,092 megawatts against a demand of 1,760 megawatts, creating a deficit of 668 megawatts.
Although imports helped cover part of the shortfall, supplying 235 megawatts, exports still amounted to 176 megawatts.
Sibanda explained that load shedding is a result of the need to balance limited supply with the demand for critical services.
He said that power distribution is uneven, with essential services such as hospitals, security installations, and water facilities being prioritized to avoid outages whenever possible. Said Sibanda:
<blockquote>
We cannot have a hospital on load shedding, a water-based location, or institutions of security on load shedding, it’s a simple fact.
Sometimes, the substation where electricity is coming from, the line passes from a residential area to a hospital, people there will benefit because of that, not because we are not supposed to not shed them.
By nature of being close to the hospital, properties will also have the benefits and disadvantages of being close to the hospital.
</blockquote>
He said load shedding was “not an issue of punishment” but an effort to “maintain an equilibrium of what we have and what the system will deliver.” Said Sibanda:
<blockquote>
Mostly the ones who are affected are residential and other non-essential industries who are the ones who are affected. I don’t think there is favouritism when it comes to load shedding.
Don’t blame your local ZESA people. Sometimes they don’t even know when it happens. It’s controlled from somewhere.
They are actually asked to go and switch off where they are staying in some instances. It’s basically like that but it’s not a punishment.
</blockquote>
The ZERA official also revealed that despite national shortages, Zimbabwe exports electricity to neighbouring countries. He said:
<blockquote>
We send about zero to eight megawatts to Namibia, depending on availability because it’s a contractual agreement, it was financed by the Namibian government.
And how we repay it is if we do it, we supply the electricity. But when it’s out, we don’t supply the electricity.
</blockquote>
Sibanda said exporting surplus electricity can be economically beneficial, especially when the national grid produces excess power during off-peak hours. 
For instance, Zambia’s copper mining industry, which operates continuously, buys power from Zimbabwe during these hours when electricity is cheaper.
This arrangement enables Zimbabwe to generate revenue from surplus energy that cannot be stored. Said Sibanda:
<blockquote>
Zambia operates its copper mines which require electricity 24/7. They might also choose to get electricity off-peak. That’s when electricity is cheap, probably Zambia’s electricity would be expensive. 
They might choose to get electricity from Zimbabwe, which is cheap because Zimbabwe also has a lot of electricity, which they are not using. So they might also opt to buy from us.
Those are some of the scenarios of us exporting, while we still are in a deficit.
</blockquote>
Sibanda said that energy wastage is a major challenge, estimating that around 300 megawatts, or 20% of Zimbabwe’s national supply, is lost due to inefficient equipment and careless use.
He emphasized the need for improved efficiency standards and conservation practices to make better use of the limited electricity.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe doesn't have enough electricity because it has to send some to other countries. The country's demand for electricity is more than what it can generate. As a result, there are power cuts in some areas to balance the supply. Important places like hospitals and security places get electricity first to avoid outages. Zimbabwe also exports electricity to get money, especially when they have extra power. But many people still waste electricity, which is a big problem. It's important to save electricity and use it wisely.

Load Shedding Driven By Low Generation And Export Obligations - ZERA

Zimbabwe has engaged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to explore the potential for establishing nuclear power plants in the country.
Despite having significant coal deposits, Zimbabwe has struggled to meet its growing electricity demands due to a lack of investment in thermal power stations over the years.
The nation has been heavily reliant on the Kariba Hydro Power Plant, which has an installed capacity of 1,050 MW.
However, power generation at the Kariba plant has been severely limited by recurrent droughts that have affected water levels.
During a recent Question and Answer session in the National Assembly, Energy and Power Development Minister Edgar Moyo said that the government is engaging the IAEA to explore prospects of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. Said Moyo (via <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zim-zambia-explore-kariba-floating-solar-project/">The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
As Zimbabwe, we have expressed our interest to the IAEA our desire to get into nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. They are with us and they are taking us through.
Committees have been set up, which are looking into that and there are milestones that we have to meet as a country before we get to the stage of developing small modular reactors so that our contribution of clean energy mix is heightened.
So, we hope these are some of the things, programmes and projects which are going to increase our contribution to the energy mix of clean energy.
</blockquote>
Nuclear power generates minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels, making it an appealing option for mitigating climate change impacts.
Nuclear fuel boasts a high energy density, meaning that a small quantity can produce a substantial amount of energy, thereby decreasing the demand for extensive fuel resources.
However, high-profile accidents such as Chernobyl and Fukushima have heightened public concerns regarding the safety of nuclear power plants and the potential for catastrophic incidents.
Furthermore, the disposal of spent nuclear fuel and other radioactive waste poses a significant challenge, necessitating secure and effective long-term storage solutions.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe wants to use nuclear power to make more electricity because there is not enough. They are asking for help from the International Atomic Energy Agency. The Kariba Hydro Power Plant does not work well because of droughts. Nuclear energy is good because it does not create as many greenhouse gases. But some people are worried about accidents and how to get rid of the waste. The government is talking to the IAEA to learn more and find ways to use nuclear energy in a safe way.

Zimbabwe Considers Nuclear Energy To End Load Shedding

Zimbabweans should prepare for increased load shedding as the festive season approaches, due to the frequent breakdowns of ageing equipment in units one to six at Hwange Thermal Power Station.
The situation is expected to worsen with the onset of the rainy season, leading to an increase in electrical faults.
During a Question and Answer session in the National Assembly on Wednesday, Energy and Power Development Minister Edgar Moyo told lawmakers that the planned repowering of the old units at Hwange, starting in 2025, along with a requirement for ferrochrome smelters to generate their power, will help mitigate the country’s power shortages. Said Moyo (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200034532/zim-faces-dark-festive-season">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
The frequency of blackouts has increased. First, as a result of the old and antiquated equipment in units one to six at Hwange which we are working on where we have signed a deal with a company from India — Jindal, which is going to start on the repowering exercise beginning early next year. That is one way of reducing the frequency of those blackouts.
Secondly, we are getting into the rainy season where we experience lightning, and wind — our infrastructure is going to be affected. We have been talking about a strategy on how to quickly respond to that.
</blockquote>
Moyo said the drought experienced during the 2023-24 summer season has resulted in low water levels in Kariba Dam. He said:
<blockquote>
Understandably so, we have been affected by the drought, Lake Kariba is a very critical asset in the power production process because that is the area where we use to balance power.
It is where we are able to ramp up production of supply or reduce it so that we can maintain a balance in the power supply. So, the issue of drought has really affected us and the impact is high.
However, to reduce the impact and to ensure that we supply those areas that cannot supply themselves, we have asked ferrochrome smelters to develop their own generation so that by the end of 2025, they will be able to supply themselves.
</blockquote>
On November 1, 2024, the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) reported that the usable live storage at Lake Kariba—water available for power generation—had declined to 2.89 billion cubic meters (BCM), representing just 4.46% of capacity. In contrast, on the same date in 2023, the usable live storage was 11.59 BCM, or 17.90%.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe is expecting more power outages because of old equipment breaking down at the Hwange Thermal Power Station. The rainy season will make things worse. The Energy Minister plans to fix the equipment starting in 2025. A drought in 2023-24 made things worse because of low water levels at Lake Kariba. The authority reported less water available for power generation than the year before. They are asking ferrochrome smelters to make their own power by 2025 to help with the power shortage. The situation looks tough, and people should be ready for more outages.

Zimbabwe Braces For Increased Power Outages

Local manufacturers are grappling with severe power cuts lasting over 18 hours daily, forcing them to rely on expensive diesel generators, which significantly increases production costs.
Zimbabwe requires about 1,700 megawatts (MW) of electricity during peak hours, but the state-owned power utility, ZESA, was generating just over 800 MW on Wednesday, October 30.
The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industry (CZI), the country’s largest business lobby group, described the situation as dire. Said the CZI:
<blockquote>
Industry members have reported going for between 12-18 hours without electricity and report that power is being restored between 11 pm and 7 am in the majority of cases.
The absence of a load schedule that is strictly adhered to has exacerbated the effect of the power cuts as affected companies cannot plan employee deployment resulting in redundant working staff for periods when power is unavailable.
The other consequence of unscheduled power cuts is that machinery requires a systemized shutdown process in order to ensure raw materials are fully utilized and the machinery itself is properly shut down.
Sudden power outages result in loss of raw materials and equipment damage.
</blockquote>
Some machinery requires process heating, which involves applying heat during industrial operations. This heating can take 3 to 5 hours before production starts.
Consequently, if electricity is available for 8 hours, effective production time is limited to just 3 to 5 hours. The CZI said:
<blockquote>
However, the electricity bill will reflect usage of 8 hours against actual production of only 3-5 hours. In sectors that heavily rely on electricity such as the plastics and cement industry this can mean failing to achieve the economies of scale necessary to cover production costs.
This situation is particularly severe for companies that do not have dedicated power lines which are normally found in the small to medium sectors.
Companies have sought to mitigate the effects of power outages through the installation of solar energy and battery storage for use at night.
However, this is often very expensive and requires significant funding that many firms struggle to secure.
</blockquote>
Christopher Mugaga, CEO of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC), told <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/power-crisis-deepens-3/">Business Times</a> that power outages will significantly affect the country’s economic performance in 2024.
He said the ongoing rolling blackouts could reduce the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 0.6 percentage points.
Mugaga operating generators is costly, which companies are using for 14 to 18 hours daily.
This situation not only deters investments but also leads to substantial losses in foreign direct investment (FDI), estimated between $120 million and $150 million annually due to power shortages.
Oswell Binha, chairman of the CEO Africa Roundtable, said power outages can last 18 hours or more, and in some cases, the power quality is so poor that businesses cannot operate even when electricity is available.
He described the situation as critical, with many companies relying on costly generators. This dilemma forces businesses to choose between raising prices or facing severe shortages in stores.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Manufacturers in Zimbabwe are suffering because of long power cuts, lasting over 18 hours every day. This means they have to use expensive diesel generators, making production more costly. The lack of a proper schedule for power cuts is causing problems for companies who can't plan their work properly. Some companies are trying to use solar energy as a solution, but it's very expensive. The power cuts may harm the country's economy and lead to a loss of foreign investments. Overall, the situation is critical for many businesses in Zimbabwe.

Manufacturers Struggle Under Burden of Daily 18-Hour Power Cuts

ZESA executive chairman Sydney Gata has attributed the current power shortages in the country to illegal sanctions imposed on the country by Western powers, which have prevented the power utility and other entities from accessing concessionary loans for infrastructure development.
As a result, Zimbabweans are enduring daily blackouts lasting at least 15 hours in their homes and businesses.
To prevent the collapse of the national grid, ZESA has implemented stringent power rationing measures. 
In an exclusive interview with The Herald in Harare on Thursday, Gata explained that the power crisis has been further exacerbated by drought, which has severely reduced the water available for power generation at the Kariba Dam. Said Gata:
<blockquote>
We have been unfortunate with Kariba hydrology or Zambezi hydrology to be more accurate. We have lost the capacity of Kariba… drastic losses.
For instance, the power station is rated at 1050MW today but we are hardly producing 150MW.
What hurts the most is that Kariba is normally our baseload plant because it is cheap to deploy and also highly reliable.
Hydropower plants have less equipment on them and are more stable to operate than confined power plants throughout the world.
So, we lost our cheapest source of energy and our most reliable source of energy and that explains today’s load shedding.
</blockquote>
On October 22, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), ZESA’s power generating unit, reported that the country was producing a total of 1,012 MW of electricity.
This included 784 MW from Hwange, 184 MW from Kariba, and 43 MW from Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe is facing power shortages because of sanctions. The sanctions stop Zimbabwe from getting loans for improving power. The country is having daily blackouts for at least 15 hours. ZESA is rationing power to avoid a national grid collapse. Drought is also making the power crisis worse. The Kariba Dam, which usually generates a lot of power, is producing much less now. Zimbabwe only has 1,012 MW of electricity being produced, which is much less than it needs. The situation is really bad because of the lack of power and water.

ZESA Blames Load Shedding On Western Sanctions

ZESA Holdings, Zimbabwe’s power utility, plans to end load-shedding by next year and provide electricity to everyone in the country by 2030.
In an exclusive interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zesa-unveils-strategy-to-end-load-shedding/">The Herald</a> in Harare on Thursday, ZESA executive chairman Sydney Gata said the strategy includes boosting local manufacturing, forming international partnerships, and improving organisational efficiency.
Gata said big companies will now handle their own energy supply risks instead of relying on the government and ZESA. He said:
<blockquote>
We decided that those customers we now describe as competent customers must fend for themselves, but we are assisting them.
</blockquote>
Gata asserted that this year, ZESA began clearing the connections backlog, and by next year, load-shedding will come to an end. He added:
<blockquote>
In 2026, the strategic plan is to clear the connections backlog. In 2027 the agenda is to end power imports, and target to be a net exporter of power by 2028.
The target for 2029 is to be a world-class power lighting country and ultimately achieve universal access to electricity by 2030.
There have been considerable investments. We now have captive power plant projects, they are six, which together add up to more than 1000MW that are being commenced, most of them in the next month.
We are doing the groundbreaking for three of them next month. They together will give us 2 690MW and our current dependable capacity hovers around 1500MW but quite often it can go as low as 1000MW.
Next year up to December 2025, we shall have commissioned at least six of these projects aggregating to an additional new capacity of 2 690MW which is almost double our current dependable capacity.
</blockquote>
Gata said that another step the power company has taken to reduce currency risk is to manufacture all the equipment used in the electricity supply industry within the country. He said:
<blockquote>
We have already commissioned an SPV that will manufacture cables and conductors. We need to replace some 24,000 kilometres of underground cable conductors in this country because they are old and rotten.
So, we engaged a UAE company with access to both capital and technology to manufacture conductors and cables in this country as ZESA Enterprises.
</blockquote>
He said solving the power issue in the country isn’t a quick fix but involves a mix of solutions that will also help future generations.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZESA Holdings in Zimbabwe wants to stop load-shedding by 2025 and give electricity to everyone by 2030. They have a plan to work with big companies, boost local manufacturing, and improve efficiency. ZESA is clearing the backlog of connections this year, and the aim is to stop importing power by 2027 and become a net exporter by 2028. They are starting projects to increase power capacity, and they plan to manufacture equipment in the country to reduce currency risks. It's a long process to fix the power problem, but it will benefit future generations.

ZESA Targets End To Load-Shedding By 2025

The Zimbabwean government has approved a series of measures to address the country’s persistent power supply shortages, which have resulted in extended load-shedding periods of up to 16 hours per day.
During a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare on Tuesday, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Jenfan Muswere, outlined the government’s plans to improve the nation’s electricity situation. Said Muswere:
<blockquote>
The structural challenges are being addressed by the Mutapa Investment Fund in a process involving bundling or merging of some entities under ZESA Holdings (Pvt) Ltd, as recommended by an independent consultant who was commissioned to undertake the task.
This will result in a more simplified and efficient governance and management structure. Supply-side interventions include rehabilitation of Hwange Units 1 to 6 under a Build, Operate and Transfer arrangement which is set to commence this year.
The Mutapa Investment Fund is also putting in place measures to cater for the foreign currency requirements of Independent Power Producers.
To address the low uptake of net metering from solar-generated electricity, ZESA has been specifically directed to promote the facility and streamline the pertinent procedures and requirements to increase uptake.
The loss of electricity during transmission is being attended to through the establishment of a joint venture between ZENT and QLV for the manufacture of cables, and in dealing with theft.
</blockquote>
The extended periods of load shedding have driven many Zimbabwean businesses and households to seek alternative energy solutions, such as diesel-powered generators and solar power systems.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government in Zimbabwe is working on fixing the problem of not having enough electricity. They are making changes to make sure there is more power available. They are fixing old power plants and working with other companies to improve things. People in Zimbabwe are facing long hours of not having electricity, so they are using generators or solar power instead. The government is trying to make it easier for people to use solar power by promoting it more. They are also working on stopping electricity from being stolen during transmission. These changes should help improve the situation in Zimbabwe.

Government Approves Measures To Combat Severe Power Shortages

Zambian radio and television stations have received approval from the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Board to temporarily suspend broadcasts from midnight to 6:00 AM to help lower operational costs amid ongoing load shedding.
In a statement released on Wednesday, October 2, the IBA Board announced that this arrangement will be effective for the next three months. Reads the statement in part:
<blockquote>
The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Board has, with immediate effect, granted all radio and television stations a “cooling off” window to help mitigate operational costs caused by challenges due to the current load management.
This respite has been granted to all licensed broadcasting stations across the country, to temporarily go off-air from midnight to 06:00 hours and will remain in force for three months.
The Board made this decision following extensive consultations with various stakeholders and after assessing the impact of load shedding on the operations of broadcasting stations.
The findings revealed that stations are struggling to maintain 24-hour operations, particularly due to the increased costs of keeping their equipment running during periods of power outages.
</blockquote>
Zambia is facing prolonged power outages, with some areas experiencing up to 20 hours of load shedding each day.
This situation is mainly attributed to a combination of factors, including drought conditions that impact hydroelectric power generation and ongoing maintenance work on power plants.
As a consequence, businesses are compelled to rely on diesel generators for extended periods, resulting in higher operational costs.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zambia's radio and TV stations will stop broadcasting from midnight to 6 AM every day to save money due to power cuts. The Independent Broadcasting Authority approved this for three months because power outages are making it expensive to run equipment all day. Some areas have up to 20 hours of power cuts a day because of drought and maintenance work on power plants. Businesses are now using diesel generators, which cost more to run. The stations hope this break will help them save money until the power situation improves.

Radio, TV Stations In Zambia To Go Off-Air Overnight Every Day Due To Load Shedding

Zambia’s power utility, Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation Limited (ZESCO), has announced plans to shut down its power station at Kariba on September 14 due to critical water shortages.
The Zimbabwe Power Company, a subsidiary of the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), is currently generating 215 MW from its Kariba South Power Station, which has a total capacity of 1,050 MW.
On Monday, September 2, the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) released a report indicating that water levels for power generation at Kariba Dam are nearly depleted.
The Usable Live Storage, which refers to the water available for power generation, has dropped to just 8.30%. This is a significant decrease from 26.08% on the same date in 2023.
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GWdcArvXUAIrQyt?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
In a statement issued on Sunday, September 1, ZESCO informed customers that it is currently providing power for up to 3 hours per day on a rotational basis to manage the ongoing power crisis. Reads part of the statement:
<blockquote>
ZESCO Limited informs its customers and the public that it is experiencing a significant power shortfall, which has constrained its ability to implement the 17-hour power rationing schedule that was announced earlier to commence on 1 September 2024. This unforeseen development arises from the following factors:
1. Reduced power imports from the southern circuit via Namibia due to a converter fault on the transmission line. During this import route constraint, ZESCO is receiving only 33 MW of the 160 MW scheduled imports.
2. Ongoing annual plant maintenance works at Maamba Collieries Limited, which has temporarily taken 150 MW off the national grid.
To cushion the impact of this power supply shortfall, ZESCO has undertaken the following measures:
1. Providing power supply to residential customers for up to 3 hours per day on a rotational basis to support access to household essentials such as water pumping.
2. Prioritizing essential services such as health, water pumping, and security.
3. Installing diesel-powered generators in some markets to support business continuity. With the installation of these generators, ZESCO also expects to ease grid pressure by freeing up some power initially reserved for exempted loads, which can then be redistributed on the network.
The Corporation will continue to monitor the situation closely and will release an updated power rationing schedule as soon as power supply conditions improve and network stability is achieved.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zambia's power station at Kariba is running out of water, so they need to shut it down. This means less electricity for people. The water levels at the dam are very low, only 8.30% left for power generation. ZESCO, the power company, can only provide electricity for 3 hours a day now. They are trying to fix the problem by using diesel generators and prioritizing important services like healthcare and water. They will update the schedule when things get better. People might have to deal with power cuts until then.

Kariba Dam Water For Power Generation Nearly Depleted

ZESA Holdings says the load-shedding experienced across the country is set to ease, as a technical fault that had affected Hwange Power Station Unit 8 since last week has now been resolved, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zesa-puts-measures-to-ease-power-shortages/">The Herald</a>.
Addressing the media in Harare on Monday, August 26, ZESA Executive Chairman Sydney Gata said that the unit is now awaiting synchronisation.
Gata also said the power utility plans to install a utility-scale battery energy storage system, which will provide 600 megawatts of power during morning and evening peak periods for up to three hours. He said:
<blockquote>
We experienced a fault at the Hwange Power Station Unit 8 last week and we had to switch it off.
These are normal technical hitches that happen during the infancy of any new plants and I’m glad to notify you that our engineers have resolved this and we expect to synchronise the unit to be back online soon…
ZESA will install a utility-scale battery energy storage system of 1800 MWh (1.8GWh) which will provide 3 hours of 600 MW during morning and evening peaks.
This will substantially reduce load shedding, besides providing some benefits to system operations.
This project is at the procurement stage. The energy to charge the batteries will be supplied or procured off-peak.
</blockquote>
Gata also announced that Hwange Power Station Units 1 to 6 will undergo a repowering project to boost the current output from 485MW to 840MW.
He further revealed that there are plans in the pipeline to construct an additional four new units with a total capacity of 1,200MW at the Hwange Thermal Power Station. He said:
<blockquote>
Jindal of India will invest in an additional 4 new units at Hwange introducing 1 200 MW of new capacity. Feasibility studies for these have commenced.
This will see an improvement of consistent output from the current average of 485 MW to 840 MW. The programme will be executed unit by unit in the next 36-48 months, with work having commenced on Unit 5, using internal resources.
Hwange Power Station’s ongoing Repowering Programme is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the station’s reliability and output.
With this investment (US$800 million), the project is set to upgrade Units 1 to 6, ensuring increased capacity, and reliability, and extending the operational life of the units by 15 to 20 years.
Currently, the station is maintaining a commendable output of 485MW, even as Unit 5 is being upgraded.
The completion of Unit 5 repowering effort is strategically scheduled for April 2025, which will bolster the station’s capacity in preparation for the high demand during the winter peak season.
</blockquote>
Gata said ZESA has entered agreements with ferrochrome companies to supply their own power. He said:
<blockquote>
Construction work has already started at one site targeting to produce 300 MW of thermal power in Hwange, with the first 100 MW coming on stream by mid-2025.
Construction work will commence this Q3 on a 720 MW thermal power station by one of the ferrochrome companies for self-supply and supply to other ferrochrome companies.
Ferrochrome companies will be investing in renewable energy, solar and wind, commencing this year.
In total, smelting companies have reached an advanced stage for the construction of a total of 300 MW of solar and 100 MW of wind power.
</blockquote>
According to the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), on Monday, August 26th, the power generation figures were as follows: Hwange Power Station was generating 780 MW, Kariba Power Station was generating 215 MW, and Independent Power Producers (IPPs) were producing 47 MW. This amounted to a total national power generation of 1,042 MW on that day.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZESA, a power company, says they fixed a problem at a power station and power shortages will get better. They will use batteries to help with power during busy times. They will also upgrade other power stations to make more power. Some companies will make their own power too. ZESA said they are working on different projects to make more power for the country. On August 26, they said the power stations were generating a total of 1,042 MW. This will help reduce power shortages in the country.

ZESA Executive Chairman Announces Measures To Ease Power Shortages

ZESA Holdings, the national power utility, is implementing increased load-shedding schedules across Zimbabwe due to reduced electricity generation capacity at the Hwange Thermal Power Station.
In a statement issued on Saturday evening, ZESA explained that a technical issue that occurred at the Hwange Thermal Power Station’s 300 MW Unit 8 has resulted in a generation shortfall on the national grid. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
ZESA Holdings would like to inform its valued customers that the national power grid is currently experiencing reduced electricity generation capacity due to a technical challenge that occurred at the Hwange Thermal Power Station’s Unit 8.
As a result of this generation shortfall, the utility has had to implement increased load shedding schedules across the country in order to balance electricity supply and demand.
Our technical teams are frantically working on resolving the fault so as to minimize the impact on customers.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate our customers’ patience and understanding during this period.
</blockquote>
According to an update provided by the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) earlier on Saturday, August 24, the Hwange Thermal Power Station was generating only 635 MW of electricity. This represents a significant decline from the over 1,000 MW it was producing before August 21.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe's power company, ZESA Holdings, is increasing power cuts because a power station has a problem. The Hwange Thermal Power Station is not making enough electricity because of an issue with Unit 8. The company is sorry for the inconvenience and is working to fix the problem. Before the issue, the power station made over 1,000 MW of electricity, but now it's only making 635 MW. This means there's less electricity for people in Zimbabwe, so they have to have more power cuts.

Hwange Power Station Fault Forces ZESA To Increase Load Shedding

The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), a subsidiary of the country’s power utility ZESA Holdings, has called on its customers with solar systems to consider exporting their excess energy into the grid through net metering.
This appeal comes at a time when Zimbabwe is experiencing a serious power crisis, with depressed generation at the country’s major power stations – Kariba and Hwange.
Kariba South Power Station, with an installed capacity of 1,050MW, is currently producing only 292MW due to low water levels at Lake Kariba.
Hwange Power Station’s ageing Units 1 to 6 are generating a fraction of their capacity, leaving the newly commissioned Units 7 and 8 to produce the bulk of the country’s locally-generated electricity.
On July 20th, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), another ZESA Holdings subsidiary, reported that the total generation from Hwange Power Station was 979MW, while Kariba contributed 292MW.
In its statement, ZETDC urged customers with solar systems on their premises to contact its Client Service Centre or dial 704 to get more information on the net metering programme. ZETDC said:
<blockquote>
Zimbabwe is facing depressed power generation due to low water levels at Kariba Power Station. 
Customers with solar systems are encouraged to export the excess energy into the grid through Net Metering.
Find out more about Net Metering at your nearest ZETDC Client Service Centre or dial 704.
</blockquote>
Net metering is a policy that allows customers who generate their electricity from solar or other renewable energy sources to feed the excess electricity they generate back into the grid and receive credits on their electricity bills.
Here’s how net metering typically works:
<ul>
<li>The customer installs a renewable energy system, such as solar panels, that is connected to the local utility’s electrical grid.</li>
<li>When the customer’s renewable energy system generates more electricity than the customer is using, the excess electricity is sent back into the utility’s grid. Conversely, when the customer’s electricity needs exceed the amount being generated, the customer draws electricity from the grid.</li>
<li>The utility tracks both the electricity the customer draws from the grid and the excess electricity the customer sends back to the grid. The difference between these two amounts is the customer’s “net” electricity usage, which is what the customer is billed for.</li>
<li>For the excess electricity the customer sends to the grid, the utility provides the customer with a credit on their electricity bill, usually at the full retail rate. These credits can then be used to offset the customer’s electricity costs when they are drawing from the grid.</li>
</ul>
The goal of net metering is to support the growth of distributed renewable energy generation and reduce the strain on the electrical grid by empowering customers to generate their own clean electricity.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe's power company ZESA is asking people with solar panels to share extra energy with the grid. This is because there is not enough electricity in the country due to low water levels at power stations. Customers can get more information about this program called net metering. Net metering allows people with solar panels to give extra electricity to the grid and get credits on their bill. This helps the environment and the electricity grid. It is important to use renewable energy to help with the power crisis.

ZESA Encourages Customers To Embrace Net Metering

The government says the severe and ongoing power cuts affecting the country are due to depressed power generation at the Hwange power station.
The state-owned power utility, ZESA Holdings, has been implementing lengthy daily blackouts of up to 15 hours in some areas due to the reduced power output from its power stations.
At its peak, Zimbabwe requires at least 2,200 MW of electricity, but the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), a subsidiary of ZESA Holdings, is currently generating less than 1,300 MW.
Addressing the media during a post-Cabinet briefing in Harare on Tuesday, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Minister Anxious Masuka said the power cuts were a direct result of outages at the Hwange Power Station. He said:
<blockquote>
In the past week or so we have had an increase in power cuts but that is due to depressed generation because of the outages at Hwange. We were promised that two units will be coming on board and the Minister of Energy and Power Development presented today that most likely those two units are already feeding into the grid.
Currently, generation is about 1 400MW per day supplemented by imports. We are currently somewhere between 1 500MW-1 600MW against a maximum demand per day of 1 825MW as presented by the Minister of Energy and Power Development today.
</blockquote>
However, according to statistics released by ZPC on Thursday, July 18, the power generation breakdown was as follows:
<ul>
<li>Hwange Power Station: 979 MW</li>
<li>Kariba Power Station: 292 MW</li>
<li>Independent Power Producers (IPPs): 43 MW</li>
<li>Total power generation: 1,314 MW</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe is facing severe power cuts because the Hwange power station is not generating enough electricity. The country needs 2,200 MW of electricity, but is only getting around 1,300 MW. The power cuts can last up to 15 hours a day. The government says the situation is improving with new units coming online, but the power generation is still not enough to meet the demand. The Hwange Power Station is a major reason for the power shortages. Kariba Power Station and Independent Power Producers are also not generating enough electricity.

Depressed Power Generation Plunges Zimbabwe Into Darkness

Zimbabwe has been experiencing widespread power cuts in recent weeks, severely impacting the country’s manufacturing sector.
According to Kurai Matsheza, the president of the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI), these power outages have forced some manufacturers to operate for less than six hours per day.
The disruption to the manufacturing industry has sparked fears of a significant economic downturn in the country. Said Matsheza:
<blockquote>
In certain instances, some areas go for 18 hours or more without electricity. In certain instances, the quality of power is poor such that businesses are unable to run even when it is available.
No specific sector has been spared. We have been engaging the utility and it is a work in progress.
</blockquote>
Christopher Mugaga, CEO of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC), warned that power outages could severely affect the winter wheat crop and manufacturers. He said:
<blockquote>
The impact is far-reaching… We are looking at its impact on winter wheat farming, and its impact in terms of companies’ operational hours.
We are losing an average of eight to 12 hours of power daily. That alone has an impact in terms of production capacity, in terms capacity utilisation, and planning.
The tariffs are still steeply pegged at an average of US$0,14 per kW. We will continue to engage the government. We cannot talk of industrialisation without addressing power cuts.
</blockquote>
This week, the Minister of Energy and Power Development Edgar Moyo tried to downplay the crisis. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
We don’t have what may be defined as a crisis. We have a marginal deficit. Our power supply level averages 1 450MW against an average peak demand of 1 800MW, leaving a deficit of a maximum of between 150MW and 350MW depending on daily demand.
Calling it a power crisis would be an exaggeration. We are just facing a marginal deficit caused by winter demand. This peaks in June and goes down in July.
</blockquote>
However, according to statistics released by the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), on Saturday, June 29, Hwange Power Station was generating 999MW, Kariba, 292MW, and IPPs 42MW, to give a total of 1 334MW.
Moyo said the 1,050MW Kariba Hydroelectric Power Station will not be completely shut down despite the dwindling water levels in the Kariba Dam. He said:
<blockquote>
Kariba is not exiting the system. There is a reduced generation, but we hope to recover after the next rainy season.
</blockquote>
On Friday, June 28th, the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) reported that the usable live storage for power generation in the Kariba Dam had declined to 12.39%.
On the same date the previous year, June 28th, 2023, the usable live storage for power generation was 31.16%.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Power Cuts Cripple Zimbabwe's Manufacturing Sector

ZESA Holdings, Zimbabwe’s power utility, has reported a loss of 800 megawatts of electricity generation capacity due to hydrological challenges at the Kariba South Hydroelectric Power Station, further exacerbating the country’s ongoing power crisis.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Energy and Power Development, Edgar Moyo, in Parliament last week while responding to questions from lawmakers regarding the electricity supply situation in Zimbabwe.
According to the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), the water available for power generation (usable live storage) at Lake Kaiba on 20 June 2024 stood at 12,54% compared to 31,23% during the same period in 2023. Said Minister Moyo:
<blockquote>
The issue of power supply in the country is heavily affected by hydrological issues in Lake Kariba, where we have lost over 800 megawatts.
The stored capacity at Kariba is 1 050 megawatts and we are only able to produce 214 megawatts on average because of the water rationing which has resulted in low inflows in the lake.
From that perspective, after losing over 800 megawatts, it makes it very difficult to sufficiently supply power in the country.
</blockquote>
Moyo said to address the power challenges, the government has commissioned Hwange Thermal Plant Units 7 and 8, which produce a combined 600 megawatts daily. He added:
<blockquote>
We also have Units 1 to 6, where we have 4 units in operation and they are producing an average of 300 megawatts. Some of those units are not very reliable and we have come up with a mechanism to constantly repair them…
The other measures that we have put in place include renewable energy, efforts where we have given licences to several IPPs which are developing their own projects.
</blockquote>
Zimbabweans are experiencing extensive rolling blackouts, with power outages lasting approximately 15 hours per day, except on Sundays in certain areas.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"ZESA Lost 800MW Capacity At Kariba Hydropower Station"

The Government has given large-scale miners two years, that is, up to 2026, to establish their own power generation plants.
The local electricity demand is projected to be above 3,000 megawatts in two years due to the growth in the mining and smelting sectors.
Besides the US$1,5 billion Dinson Iron and Steel Company (Discosteel) plant in Manhize near Mvuma, Midlands, which commenced production of pig iron on Wednesday, 12 June, there are several other projects across the country.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/watch-mines-given-ultimatum-2-year-window-to-set-up-power-plants/">State media</a> on the sidelines of the Energy and Power Development Parliamentary Portfolio Committee workshop in Bulawayo recently, Energy and Power Development Minister, Edgar Moyo, said the government expects electricity demand to rise to 3 200MW.
He said the mining sector alone was expected to consume about 2 600MW, agriculture 120MW and households 500MW. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
We recognise that the mining sector is growing, particularly with the coming of the lithium mines. The power demand has surged phenomenally.
And, as the Government we cannot adequately provide power alone, we need to do it with the private sector.
We have approved a policy that these miners, particularly, the ferrochrome miners who are heavily subsidised, should develop their own generation plants from the renewable side.
We gave ferrochrome miners two years to set up their own generation plants. The time frame begins this year, which is 2024 and we expect that by 2026 they should have set up their own generation plants.
They can have their own solar plants to augment what they get from the national grid. We are going into a kind of partnership where the responsibility to provide power has to be shared between the Government and the mining companies.
</blockquote>
Moyo also said Independent Power Producers (IPPs) were producing nearly 100MW and the projection was that the national consumption will shoot to 3 000MW.
He said the country still has a deficit of between 200MW and 500MW depending on the days.
On Thursday, June 13, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) said Hwange was generating 911MW, Kariba 450MW and IPPs 44 MW.
However, load shedding has intensified across the country over the past week or so, leading many people to express doubt about the statistics provided by ZPC.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Government Gives Mining Firms Two Years To Set Up Power Plants

The Government of Zambia through the Ministry of Energy, has announced the extension of the daily hours of load shedding from the current 8 hours to 12 hours with effect from Monday, 20 May 2024.
The 8-hour load-shedding regime took effect on the 11th of March 2024.
In a statement issued on Friday, 24 May 2024, signed by Minister of Energy Peter Chibwe Kapala, the load shedding will be staggered in periods of 6 hours each day to ensure that there is power supply available until the end of the year.
Kapala said Zambia’s power generation is primarily hydro with the country’s dependence still at 85% of the total installed capacity of 3,777 Megawatts. He added:
<blockquote>
This reliance has been severely tested by drought highlighting the inherent risks and limitations of depending on a single energy source.
As of 14th May 2024, the water available for power generation at Kariba Dam, the hardest hit reservoir in terms of reduced water inflows, stood at 48.6% yielding a paltry 166MW of power from the total installed power generating capacity of 1,080MW.
As reported by the Zambezi River Authority, the water levels did not appreciate at the end of the rainy season and have since continued on a downward trend.
The situation for the Kafue River Basin, which has traditionally been our most reliable, has not been any better.
The Itezhi Tezhi Dam as of 14th May 2024 stood at 39% of usable water for the generation of electricity.
</blockquote>
Kapala said the country’s power utility, ZESCO Limited has taken steps to steadily increase power imports as a measure to reduce the deficit to support industries during the emergency period. He said:
<blockquote>
While the power imports have eased pressure on the national grid, it is not without some limitations which include network transmission constraints on some routes within the regional market.
At present, our total power imports (firm and non-firm) stand at 188MW. In addition to that, ZESCO Limited has clawed back power from export contracts to a total of 160MW.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe is also heavily dependent on the Kariba Dam for power generation but of late, the country’s power utility, ZESA Holdings, has been generating more than 500 MW from the reservoir.
According to Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), on Friday, 24 May, Kariba Hydro was generating 654 MW. Hwange was producing 989 MW, while IPPs were generating 45 MW, to give a total of 1 688 MW.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zambia Intensifies Load Shedding

Business executives and captains of industry in Zimbabwe are facing a challenging 2024. The country’s persistent electricity shortages, coupled with rising costs, have raised concerns.
As the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) reduces water allocation to ZESA and ZESCO for power generation at Kariba Dam due to the water crisis, the situation is expected to worsen.
Hwange Power Station is now the primary source of power, but technical glitches occasionally result in total outages.
To mitigate the impact, some companies may resort to staff rationalisation, reduced production, and price adjustments.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.businessweekly.co.zw/alarm-over-potential-rise-in-energy-costs/">Business Weekly</a>, Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) president, Kurai Matsheza, lamented that electricity costs have constantly been increasing while at the same time supply remains depressed. He said:
<blockquote>
Some companies will switch to more expensive alternative sources of power, so again, it is an increase in cost.
When that happens, combined with the real cost of electricity that has aggressively gone up, it just makes the cost of producing more expensive, and those costs will be transferred to the goods and services that are being sold.
It is not good for us as producers but also not good for consumers; this will just make the cost go up.
</blockquote>
Victor Bhoroma, an economist, said without addressing power generation, the Zimbabwean economy will not achieve consistent growth. He said:
<blockquote>
Businesses will have to invest more in alternative power, which adds another layer to the cost of doing business and increases consumer prices.
A lot of productive time will be lost, which entails operating below optimum capacity and retrenching labour.
</blockquote>
Another economist, Eddie Cross, said the situation is very serious and will affect businesses across the nation. Said Cross:
<blockquote>
Many firms are running generators, and others are installing solar power panels and batteries.
But where people cannot respond, they will have to cut costs and raise prices.
</blockquote>
To mitigate the impact of shortages, the government aims to commission small hydro and solar power stations.
These initiatives are expected to add approximately 90 MW in 2024 through Independent Power Producers (IPPs).
By 2025, an additional 296 MW is anticipated to come online, primarily from solar, hydro, and coal projects.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Industry Leaders Brace For Soaring Costs Amid Power Shortages

Power utility ZESA Holdings says the national grid experienced a system disturbance on Wednesday morning which resulted in the loss of generation at the Hwange Power Station.
In a statement issued around midday today, ZESA said the system disturbance has resulted in increased load shedding across the country. ZESA said:
<blockquote>
ZESA Holdings would like to inform its valued customers that the national grid experienced a system disturbance this morning at 0938 hours, resulting in the loss of generation at the Hwange Power Station.
This has resulted in increased load curtailment across the country. Our engineers are working flat out to ensure the restoration of service in the shortest possible time.
</blockquote>
Earlier on Wednesday, ZESA Holdings’ power generating unity, the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), said that Hwange was generating 774MW, Kariba was producing 300MW, and IPPs were generating 31MW.
This means locally generated power is currently less than 400MW against a peak demand of 2 200MW.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"System Disturbance" Knocks Off Hwange Power Station

The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, Gloria Magombo (pictured) has said the Government is committed to ensuring that the electricity supply is improved and once it reaches optimum levels, it is sustained.
This comes amid a modest increase in power generation by the power utility over the past few weeks which has resulted in reduced load shedding.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/increased-power-generation-a-giant-leap/">The Herald</a> yesterday, Magombo said one of the major strategies the Government has adopted is to ensure that the power utility, ZESA Holdings, recovers the full cost of electricity supply. She said:
<blockquote>
The most important thing that you have to appreciate as indicated previously is that the Government will continue to engage various partners either in the private sector or our entities to ensure that power supply improves and is sustained and one of the major strategies which we have taken which was through the regulatory issues was to ensure that the utility can recover the full cost of supply.
They need to be empowered such that they are then able to meet the cost of the supply of energy and also that of maintenance and repairs of their equipment.
The equipment is old. It’s a process not an event so they will continue to take the steps to ensure that all the old equipment is taken out slowly and taken for a full overhaul.
We have adopted a strategy that the private sector should be part of and, as a Government, we have seen a high increase in private sector installations of commercial and industrial systems to assist ZESA in meeting its part.
We have seen a huge increase in solar rooftops which are also being connected to the grid, especially during the day and for us, we want to appreciate the private sector’s initiatives to also complement the efforts of the utility to ensure everyone does their part.
</blockquote>
On Thursday, 08 February, the country was generating a total of 1 430MW against a demand of at least 1 800MW.
The Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) was generating 824MW and 558MW from Hwange and Kariba, respectively, while Independent Power Producers (IPPs) were producing 48MW.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Committed To Ensuring Increased Power Supply - Magombo

The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) has reduced the amount of water allotted for power generation at the Kariba Dam by 47% to 16 billion cubic metres (BCM) from 30 BCM.
In a recent statement, ZRA said that the reduction in the amount of water allotted for power generation in 2024 was necessitated by low water levels in the largest man-made lake and the anticipated normal to below normal 2023/2024 rainfall season in part of Kariba’s catchment area.
Zambia Electricity Supply Authority (ZESCO) and Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), a ZESA power generation unit, will each receive an allocation of 8 BCM starting this week, down from the current 15 BCM.
ZPC operates the Kariba South Hydroelectric Power Station and ZESCO manages the Kariba North Bank Power Station. Said ZRA:
<blockquote>
ZRA hereby announces that it has allocated 16 BCM of water to be shared equally between the two power utilities (ZESCO and ZPC) for their power generation operations at Kariba for the year 2024.
The 2024 water allocation was informed by the 2023/2024 rainfall forecasts made by the Southern Africa Climate Outlook Forum-27 and the corresponding downscaled projections by the National Metrological Agencies of Zambia and Zimbabwe, which all showed a high probability of a normal to below normal 2023/2024 rainfall season for the Kariba Lower Catchment and normal to above normal rainfall season for the Kariba Upper Catchment.
This general outlook is highly influenced by the increasing occurrence of El Niño weather conditions, which are expected to significantly negatively impact the rainfall season in southern Africa.
Hydrological simulations carried out by the authority using the Kariba Inflow Forecasting System that is based on satellite rainfall measurements and numerical weather forecasts, providing short-term and seasonal flow forecasts, considering the high likelihood of a below-average rainfall season which, in turn, will likely result in below average inflows into Lake Kariba thereby negatively impacting the volume of water available for power generation during the year 2024.
Accordingly, power utilities have been advised to consider alternative sources of power to complement generation at Kariba to fill any power generation deficit that could arise due to the lower water allocation at Kariba for the year 2024.
</blockquote>
The downward revision of the water allocation for 2024 for ZPC and ZESCO negatively will impact power generation in Zimbabwe and Zambia and will most likely result in increased load shedding.
Kariba South Hydroelectric Power Station is Zimbabwe’s most reliable power plant. Hwange Power Station is now very old and two units that were commissioned this year have a combined capacity of 600MW, about a third of the country’s electricity needs.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kariba Dam Water Allocation For Electricity Generation Slashed By 47%

Residents of Masvingo, under the Communities in Action Platform (CAP) on Monday staged a street protest over the worsening power cuts, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/watch-masvingo-residents-protest-worsening-load-shedding-say-they-are-tired-of-living-in-darkness/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
Most people in Zimbabwe are spending at least 12 hours a day without electricity as generation by the country’s power utility ZESA, continues to plummet.
The protestors, who were holding placards, headed to ZESA headquarters demanding that the power utility provide a clear plan on how it was working to address load shedding. Said CAP:
<blockquote>
The people of Masvingo are tired of living in darkness. These power cuts are not just an inconvenience, they are a threat to our livelihoods and well-being.
CAP urges ZESA to implement effective measures to stabilise the power grid and ensure consistent electricity supply to Masvingo residents.
We call on the government to prioritise renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power as a sustainable solution to Zimbabwe’s energy woes.
</blockquote>
The World Bank recently said power cuts will cost Zimbabwe 6.1% of gross domestic product (GDP) annually.
In its report titled “Electrifying Growth through Reliable and Universal Energy Access, the World Bank said that the 6.1 per cent comprises 2.3 per cent of GDP in generation inefficiencies and excessive network losses and 3.8 per cent of GDP on the downstream costs of unreliable energy.
It said that if Zimbabwe hopes to achieve the high growth rates needed to move toward upper middle-income status by 2030, it will be critical to realise stable and reliable electricity access,
Zimbabwe’s peak electricity demand is projected to grow substantially, from 1 950 MW in 2022 to 5 177 MW by 2030.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Tired Of Living In Darkness", Masvingo Residents March To ZESA Offices

The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) on Wednesday, 13 December, said that the country is experiencing depressed electricity generation due to low water levels in Lake Kariba and routine maintenance service of Hwange Power Station’s Unit 8.
In a statement, ZETDC said the water level at Kariba Dam has fallen to 11.84 per cent which has restricted power generation. It said:
<blockquote>
The national grid is generally depressed in terms of generation, largely due to the depressed availability of water at Kariba where we have been restricted to generating a daily average of 300MW instead of the maximum capacity of 1050MW. The water Lake level currently stands at 11.84 per cent.
Furthermore, as previously updated, the Hwange Unit 7 returned to service on 30 November after successfully undergoing a routine C- Type maintenance.
Unit 7 and Unit 8 ran concurrently from 1-8 December 2023 in preparation for the Unit 8 routine C-Check which commenced on the 8th of December 2023.
Indications so far point to the fact that the plants have been built to world-class standards.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe requires about 1 800 MW of electricity per day but the country is currently generating just over 1 00MW resulting in frequent blackouts and load shedding.
The country’s electricity generation primarily relies on a mix of sources, including thermal power plants, hydroelectric power, and imports.
The largest power plant in the country is the Hwange Thermal Power Station, which utilises coal as fuel.
The Kariba South Hydroelectric Power Station is another significant source of electricity, harnessing the power of the Zambezi River.
However, these power generation facilities have faced technical challenges, insufficient maintenance, and financial constraints, leading to reduced capacity and unreliable power supply.
In recent years, the Government of Zimbabwe, through the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has granted licences to Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to augment power generated by the power utility ZESA Holdings.
Renewable energy, especially solar, has gained attention as a viable solution to diversify the energy mix in Zimbabwe. 
There have been initiatives to promote solar power projects, including the establishment of solar farms and the introduction of net metering to encourage residential and commercial solar installations.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Power Generation "Generally" Depressed - ZETDC

The World Bank has said power cuts cost Zimbabwe a total of 6.1 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP) per year.
In its fourth Zimbabwe Economic Update report released on Wednesday, 13 December, the World Bank said power shortages are hurting the mining sector which consumes a lot of energy. It said:
<blockquote>
World Bank estimates suggest that Zimbabwe’s power shortages cost the country a total of 6.1% of GDP [gross domestic product] per year, comprising 2.3% of GDP in generation inefficiencies and excessive network losses, and 3.8% of GDP on the downstream costs of unreliable energy…
Electricity deficits are particularly damaging for the mining sector, given its highly energy-intensive characteristics, so unreliable and expensive electricity supplies reduce the margins of existing operations and weigh heavily on the feasibility evaluations for expansions and new projects.
</blockquote>
The World Bank said power cuts were also negatively affecting agricultural and agro-processing sectors by undermining irrigation, as well as cold chain and storage facilities.
It said the tourism sector is also affected as hotels, resorts and tourist attractions face disruption of essential services.
All these effects translate into lower economic growth and lower household incomes, the bank said.
The Washington-based lender said for Zimbabwe to achieve universal electricity access by 2030, large investments are required, especially in solar power and grid expansion.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Power Cuts Cost Zimbabwe 6.1% Of GDP - World Bank

The newly-commissioned multi-million-dollar Parliament in Mt Hampden has not been spared rolling power cuts as the structure often relies on generators.
This was revealed by the acting Speaker of the National Assembly on Tuesday when he appealed to members to submit their further suggestions to Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona’s ministerial report in writing as power would switch off anytime. Said the acting Speaker:
<blockquote>
I would like to advise Hon. Members that we are going to lose power anytime from now because we are working on generators.
So, if anybody has got any suggestions that they want to give to the Minister, I would urge you to write them down and then hand them over to the Minister through the Administration of Parliament. I will ask the Minister to adjourn the House for us.
</blockquote>
Parliament adds to the list of other key institutions including clinics, schools, universities that are being affected by the debilitating power cuts.
The Parliament of Zimbabwe moved to the new building in October this year following the handover of the facility by the Chinese Government to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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