Tinaye Agere
Sharon Masocha
The rehabilitation of Hwange Units 1 to 6 under a build, operate and transfer arrangement, set to commence this year, will significantly reduce the frequency and duration of power cuts.
Cabinet yesterday received and approved an updated report on the measures to enhance Zimbabwe’s power supply security, which was presented by the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, as the chairman of Inter-Ministerial Committee.
“We are committed to achieving Vision 2030 aspirations of transforming Zimbabwe into an upper-middle income society, and electricity supply is fundamental to this ambition.
“Currently we face a deficit of 400 megawatts, compelling us to import between 200 to 500 megawatts to bridge the gap and this situation is unacceptable and requires urgent intervention,” said Minister Ncube.
He emphasised the importance of rehabilitating Hwange Units 1 to 6.
In addition, Prof Ncube announced plans for the rapid installation of prepaid meters to effectively manage debtors.
“One of our key focuses is to promote net-metering for solar generated electricity, and ZESA has been directed to simplify procedures to increase uptake.
“Additionally we are tackling transmission losses through a joint venture aimed at manufacturing cables, while also addressing issues of theft and corruption.
“We are also investing in research and development in collaboration with ZESA, ZENT and local educational institutions to promote the local manufacturing of power generation and transmission equipment,” he said.
Bongani Ndlovu