Online Reporter
Michael Tome
Business Reporter
Eureka Gold Mine expects the first power output from its solar plant by January 2026 as it accelerates measures to reduce reliance on the national electricity grid, enhance energy security and protect production amid persistent power supply challenges.
The gold mine has commenced the construction of a 5-megawatt solar power plant, which is expected to significantly cut dependence on grid electricity.
Once fully operational, the project will enable Eureka to meet all its daytime power requirements through renewable energy.
Eureka’s operations require approximately 10 MW and management says the mine is on track to meet this demand through a combination of solar generation, grid supply and alternative energy arrangements.
Eureka Gold Mine general manager, Engineer Nelson Banda, said power reliability remained one of the company’s key operational risks, reflecting challenges faced by most energy-intensive industries in Zimbabwe.
“Security of power supply is something we monitor very closely. We have engaged the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) to ensure we are guaranteed the electricity required to run our plant operations.
“By January, we expect the first power to start flowing, scaling up to about five megawatts by mid-year. Ultimately, our operations require approximately 10 megawatts, and we are confident we will be on track to meet that demand,” said Eng Banda.
Beyond renewable energy, Eureka is also engaging with other industry players to explore direct power imports as a complementary solution to ensure uninterrupted production.
The company said securing reliable power is critical to sustaining operations and positioning the mine for long-term growth, particularly at a time when global gold prices remain elevated, placing a premium on operational efficiency and production continuity.
Eureka believes its combined strategy of energy security, resource growth and life-of-mine extension will strengthen its standing among Zimbabwe’s leading gold producers and support consistent output in a challenging operating environment.
