What is Zimbabwe's energy demand?

Zimbabwe's increased economic activity in various sectors, including housing development and construction, has fueled a demand for energy and electricity demand in general. The Government of Zimbabwe estimates the surge in power demand to peak at 2000 MW in 2023, as compared to 1200 MW in 2021.

How much electricity does Zimbabwe produce?

About 50% of Zimbabwe’s electricity demand is driven by the mining and other heavy industries. Despite having a vast renewable energy potential, 18 IPPs produce just about 136 MW of power for own consumption or for trading, out of which 36 MW is generated from Renewable sources.

How much does Zimbabwe's power shortage cost the country?

Zimbabwe’s power shortages are estimated to cost the country a total of 6.1% of GDP 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. Despite some recent achievements, Zimbabwe’s electricity sector still faces major challenges.

How many power plants are there in Zimbabwe?

Despite having a vast renewable energy potential, 18 IPPs produce just about 136 MW of power for own consumption or for trading, out of which 36 MW is generated from Renewable sources. The rest of their production is dominated by government owned power entities. Zimbabwe Power company (ZPC)operates and manages five power stations.

Which projects will increase electricity supply in Zimbabwe?

The biggest planned increase in electricity supply comes from the Batoka Gorge Project along the border with Zambia (1,200 MW for Zimbabwe) projected for completion after 2034, and the Devil’s Gorge (1,200 MW) to be completed by 2040.

How has Zimbabwe increased its power generation capacity in 2021?

The government of Zimbabwe has increased its focus on increasing power generation capacity by integrating renewables into the mix. As of 2021, the installed renewable energy capacity was 1,211 MW compared to 878 in 2015. The installed capacity in the country has increased by almost 38%.