adminCabinet minister has confirmed.
The US$3 billion project to be rolled out over the next four years would alleviate the country’s power woes that have been worsening over the years, as equipment became obsolete.
Currently, the country’s power utility, Zesa Holdings, is producing about 1 400MW against a national demand of over 2 000MW per day.
With the economy now recovering from a decade of contraction sparked by illegal sanctions that some Western countries imposed, Zimbabwe has had to rely on imports to overcome a ballooning power deficit.
Energy and Power Development Minister Elton Mangoma said that the French firm, whose name he refused to disclose, would soon undertake a feasibility study before construction of the thermal station begins.
“We have granted the French consortium a licence to construct a power station in Zimbabwe.
“I am sure that they will start their preparatory work soon,” he said.
The French consortium last year submitted an application to Government expressing desire to construct a power station in the country.
Government has also approved a 2 400MW thermal power station that is being spearheaded by diversified mining concern RioZim.
The US$4 billion project, expected to be operational in 2014, will be set up in the Sengwa area in the Midlands.
Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) has also identified investors to boost power generation at Kariba and Hwange power stations by an additional 900MW at a cost of US$1,3 billion.
As the economy continues recovering from a decade long meltdown, Government has since invited private investors to construct power stations in the country.
Zimbabwean industry has said it requires at least 18 hours of uninterrupted daily power supply. – New Ziana.
Online Reporter