Tinaye Agere
Harmony Agere
THE Government has announced significant reductions in key licensing fees charged by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), a move expected to reduce fuel costs.
Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing in Harare today, Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere said Cabinet had approved a number of adjustments aimed at easing the cost of doing business for energy players.
He revealed that the petroleum import licence fee, previously pegged at US$30 000, has been reduced by 50 percent.
The decision is expected to ease operational costs for fuel suppliers and improve efficiency within the petroleum supply chain.
In a major boost for renewable energy investors, the ZERA solar generation licence fee, formerly US$2 875, has been scrapped entirely.
This is anticipated to attract more independent power producers and accelerate solar energy roll-out across the country, in line with national targets to increase clean energy generation.
Additionally, the ZERA licence application fee has been lowered from US$2 500 to US$2 000, further reducing entry barriers for prospective investors in the energy sector.
The adjustments, Minister Muswere said, are part of Government’s broader reforms aimed at fostering a competitive, investment-friendly environment, supporting private-sector participation and promoting sustainable energy development.
The revised fees are expected to unlock fresh capital inflows, expand generation capacity and enhance overall energy security as Zimbabwe seeks to reduce power deficits and strengthen economic growth.
Online Reporter