dyton mupawaenda
Theseus Shambare
ZIMBABWE is strategically positioned to become a key power trading hub in the Southern African region due to its central geographical location.
Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo made these remarks while addressing stakeholders on the future of energy in the region during the Mining and Energy Conference being held in Maputo, Mozambique on Monday.
He emphasised the critical role of regional collaboration and infrastructure development in ensuring low-cost and quality energy services.
“Regional energy trading will play a key role in the provision of low-cost, quality energy services,” said Minister Moyo.
He underscored the importance of the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), asserting that it “must be at the centre of all power supply in the region”.
Minister Moyo highlighted Zimbabwe’s unique geographical advantage, noting that “Zimbabwe, due to its central geographical location in the Region, can play a key role in power trading through wheeling of power.”
Wheeling refers to the transportation of electricity from one utility to another through transmission lines owned by a third party.
To realise this potential, Minister Moyo stressed the necessity of bolstering the region’s energy infrastructure.
“There is need to strengthen the transmission infrastructure and also increase interconnectivity between countries and regions. In Zimbabwe’s case, regional projects include Zizabona and Mozisa,” he said, referencing key interconnection initiatives.
Furthermore, Minister Moyo pointed to the significance of financial mechanisms in driving regional energy projects.
“The established regional fund for regional projects will go a long way in fostering development in the region,” he said.
“There is need for harmonisation of policies and plans to ensure seamless energy trading within the region. This will enable the provision of low-cost supply options at the regional level, thereby improving efficiencies and industrial growth.”
Minister Moyo advocated for regional import substitution to boost industrial growth, citing Zimbabwe’s transformer manufacturing sector as an example where SADC support could lead to significant expansion.
Online Reporter