Nhimbe Fresh, one of Zimbabwe’s largest horticultural firms, has completed the development of a 1.9MW solar plant to power operations at its estates in Marondera.
South African energy start-up Sun Exchange raised US$1.4 million in a crowd sale, so far the largest in Africa, after investors purchased individual solar cells in the project. In return, investors will earn a rental income from the electricity generated.
Electricity shortages in Zimbabwe have caused frequent power cuts, prompting some businesses to invest in solar energy. The shortages largely result from recurrent breakdowns at the Hwange Thermal Power station with a capacity of 920MW.
“The power plant, which will be commissioned on December 16, 2021, will power most Nhimbe’s operations, including park houses and cold store facilities”, Chief Executive Officer, Nhimbe Fresh, Mr Moyo stated.