- Zimbabwe will continue power generation from the Kariba Hydro-Power Station despite low water levels, while Zambia plans to suspend its operations from the dam due to the drought.
- The Zimbabwean government is pushing for renewable energy projects by significant power consumers to conserve water and improve energy availability.
Despite ongoing challenges due to low water levels, Zimbabwe will continue generating power from the Kariba Hydro-Power Station through the end of the year. This assurance comes as Zambia, which shares the Kariba Dam, plans to halt its power generation later this month due to an El Niño-induced drought affecting water levels in the dam.
The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), responsible for managing power generation at Kariba for Zimbabwe and Zambia, has reported that only eight per cent of the available water is suitable for power generation. This severe shortage has raised concerns about sustaining energy production in the region.
Energy and Power Development Minister Edgar Moyo confirmed that Zimbabwe has not reached the limit of its power generation capacity and will maintain its current production levels. However, some load shedding might occur due to water scarcity.
Zimbabwe is generating approximately 215 megawatts (MW) from its installed capacity of over 1,000 MW. The country also relies on thermal power stations in Hwange to balance the power supply.
Looking ahead, Zimbabwe is optimistic that the upcoming La Niña rainy season will improve water levels in Lake Kariba and enhance its power generation capacity. The Southern Africa Regional Climate Outlook Forum (Sarcof-29) has forecasted normal to above-normal rainfall for the 2024/25 rainy season, which could alleviate some current water shortages.
In response to the energy challenges, the Zimbabwean government has mandated ferrochrome smelting companies, major consumers of the country’s power, to develop their renewable energy sources. This directive aims to conserve water and increase the available power for other sectors.
Ferrochrome producers have until the end of 2025 to complete their renewable energy projects, after which they will be disconnected from the national grid. This move is expected to free up approximately 20 per cent of the country’s power for other uses.
Minister Moyo also encouraged other sectors to invest in renewable energy, highlighting that Zimbabwe’s Renewable Energy Policy facilitates the import of solar equipment duty-free to promote renewable sources. By boosting investments in renewable energy, Zimbabwe aims to enhance its energy security and manage its resources more effectively amid ongoing challenges.