Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Business Hub
In another major boost to Zimbabwe’s energy generation capacity, independent power producer Huoyuntong Investments (Private) Limited has applied to establish a 300-megawatt (MW) coal-fired thermal power plant in Kwekwe. This development is expected to play a catalytic role in the country’s industrialisation and economic transformation agenda.
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) confirmed receipt of the application in a notice issued in terms of Section 4(3) of the Electricity (Licensing) Regulations, 2008, under Statutory Instrument 103 of 2008.
To be located at Indarama Mine in the Midlands Province, the proposed plant will feed directly into the national grid, significantly enhancing energy security and reliability at a time when Zimbabwe is intensifying efforts to attain energy self-sufficiency.
Huoyuntong Investments intends to construct, own, operate, and maintain the facility, which will be supported by a new 15-kilometre triple-circuit 400kV transmission line linking the proposed Huoyuntong Substation to the Sherwood B Substation. The line will incorporate associated line bays and related infrastructure to ensure seamless integration into the existing grid network.
The project comes as the Government accelerates infrastructure development in line with Vision 2030, which seeks to transform Zimbabwe into an upper middle-income economy. Energy is recognised as a key enabler of value addition, industrialisation, mining, agriculture, and improved living standards.
Although coal-fired power generation faces global scrutiny due to environmental concerns, Zimbabwe continues to pursue a pragmatic and balanced energy mix. The country is expanding investments in renewable energy, including solar and hydro, while strategically utilising its vast coal reserves to meet baseload demand and support economic growth.
The licensing process for the proposed power station is being conducted in line with Sections 42 and 46 of the Electricity Act (Chapter 13:19), reflecting the regulatory transparency and legal safeguards governing investments in the energy sector.
As part of its mandate to promote inclusivity and public participation, ZERA has invited stakeholders and members of the public to submit representations or objections to the proposed project, as required under the prevailing legal framework.
