Nqobile Bhebhe Senior Reporter
ZESA Private Limited will begin scheduled maintenance on Hwange Power Station’s Units 7 and 8 today, temporarily reducing available generation capacity, as the power utility moves to strengthen plant reliability while relying on alternative energy sources to sustain electricity supplies.
Unit 7 is expected to return to service on 4 January, 2027, while Unit 8 is scheduled to resume generation on January 26, 2027, marking a phased maintenance programme that will temporarily reduce electricity generation capacity at the country’s largest power station.
The planned outages come as Zimbabwe continues to improve electricity generation reliability to support economic activity, industrial production and household consumption.
In a statement, ZESA said the maintenance programme was part of its long-term strategy to sustain generating plant performance and strengthen the reliability of electricity supplies.
“The maintenance programme forms part of the utility’s routine asset management strategy aimed at sustaining plant performance, improving operational reliability and ensuring the continued availability of generating units for the national grid.”
The utility said it had put in place several interventions to cushion the impact of the temporary reduction in generation capacity, drawing on domestic generation, regional electricity markets and growing independent power production.
Among the measures is increased generation at Kariba Power Station during peak demand periods, while ensuring responsible management of lake water levels.
ZESA will also leverage electricity imports through the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), providing an additional source of supply to complement locally generated power.
The utility is further counting on additional capacity from Independent Power Producers (IPPs), following the signing of power purchase agreements, as the Government continues to encourage private-sector participation in the energy sector.
Renewable energy is also expected to contribute towards bridging the supply gap, with solar power plants being connected to the national grid alongside support from embedded generation.
ZESA said the interventions would be complemented by typically lower electricity demand during this period of the year, providing additional room to manage the temporary reduction in generation.
The maintenance programme show the importance of regular investment in existing generation infrastructure as Zimbabwe seeks to build a more dependable electricity supply system capable of supporting its industrialisation and economic transformation ambitions.
Reliable electricity remains critical for key productive sectors, particularly mining, manufacturing, agriculture and services, where interruptions can increase operating costs and constrain production.
ZESA urged consumers to use electricity efficiently throughout the maintenance period.
“ZESA (Private) Limited remains committed to delivering reliable and sustainable electricity to all customers. We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our customers and stakeholders as we undertake this essential maintenance programme to strengthen the long-term reliability of the national power system.”
