- The Chronicle in Zimbabwe reports that the Chinese state-owned JINAN Group, with ferrochrome mining operations based in Gweru, plans to development solar PV capacity totalling 150MW over three phases.
- The initiative aims to mitigate energy shortages and reduce electricity costs.
- Zimbabwe currently cannot meet the country’s electricity demand.
- Residents and businesses face daily blackouts. Read more
According to Munyaradzi Matanyaire, JINAN’s Finance Manager, the first phase of the project will be developed at a cost of US$25 million, with equipment for the 20 MW plant currently being shipped from China. Completion is expected by the end of the second quarter of this year. A 30 MW expansion is planned provided land can be secured from the Gweru City Council.
Beyond these initial phases, JINAN Group plans to develop a 100 MW solar power plant at the Chessa substation, located 26 km outside Gweru.
The solar projects are expected to improve energy availability for production, create local employment opportunities, and drive innovation within Zimbabwe’s mining industry.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
