Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has issued power generation licences with a combined capacity of 440 megawatts to three independent power producers (IPPs) in Matabeleland North and Midlands provinces, in a major boost towards national power security.
The licences, which allow the firms to construct, own, operate and maintain power plants, were all issued in December 2025 in terms of Section 46(6) of the Electricity Act (Chapter 13:19), ZERA chief executive officer Mr Eddington Mazambani said.
The licensed firms are Zhong An Coking and Power Company in Hwange, Matabeleland North, which will generate 240MW through a heat recovery power plant, while Huoyuntong Investments (Pvt) Ltd and Changshi Power (Pvt) Ltd, both based in Gweru, Midlands Province, will each produce 100MW.
The approvals reflect Government’s commitment to diversifying power generation sources and strengthening the role of independent power producers in complementing existing utilities.
Independent power producers have become increasingly important in Zimbabwe’s energy mix as the country seeks to close the electricity supply gap, reduce reliance on imports and support economic growth through reliable and sustainable power generation.
“In terms of Section 46 (6) of the Electricity Act (Chapter 13:19), Zhong An Coking and Power Company Private Limited hereby publishes a copy of the generation licence issued by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) that authorises Zhong An Coking and Power Company (Pvt) Ltd to construct, own, operate and maintain the 240MW heat recovery power plant in Ward 13 of Main North in Hwange, Matabeleland North Province,” reads part of the notice.
Huoyuntong Investments (Pvt) Ltd has been authorised to construct, own, operate and maintain a 100MW solar power plant at Bijou Farm, Ward 19 of Vungu, in Gweru, Midlands Province.
The project is expected to contribute to the country’s renewable energy targets while improving electricity supply in the region.
Meanwhile, Changshi Power (Pvt) Ltd has been licensed to construct, own, operate and maintain a 100MW coal-fired thermal power plant at Gwelo Township Lands in Gweru, Midlands Province.
The latest licences underscore the growing participation of private investors in power generation, which is seen as key to enhancing energy security, promoting regional development and supporting Zimbabwe’s industrialisation drive.
