Online Reporter
Walter Nyamukondiwa
Mashonaland West Bureau Chief
THE Zambezi River Authority has commenced preparatory works for the Lake Kariba Floating Solar Photovoltaic (FPV) Project Feasibility Study.
To that end, the Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) has convened a meeting of stakeholders, including Government ministries from Zimbabwe and Zambia, respective power utilities, development finance institutions and technical partners in Siavonga, Zambia.
The meeting laid the ground for the commencement of feasibility studies for the project.
ZRA said the meeting formally launched preparatory works for the proposed project, which will bolster efforts to diversify the Lake Kariba and regional power mix.
“The engagement formally launched preparatory works for a proposed floating solar initiative on Lake Kariba, marking a significant step toward diversifying the region’s energy mix and strengthening sustainable power generation within the Zambezi Basin,” said ZRA in a statement.
The feasibility study will evaluate viability and its technical, environmental, social, and financial impact.
This will include project modelling, stakeholder consultations and detailed assessment of the viability of installing floating solar infrastructure on the Lake.
“Once developed, the project is expected to complement existing hydropower generation, optimise water and energy resources, enhance climate resilience, and improve regional energy security, while positioning the initiative for investment readiness with support from cooperating partners,” ZRA further explained.
Participants at the two-day meeting included representatives from the Ministries of Energy of Zambia and Zimbabwe, the African Development Bank (AfDB), Swedfund, Norconsult, national power utilities, District Administration officials, and ZRA.
The highly subscribed meeting has been hailed as a key indicator strong regional and international collaboration in advancing innovative renewable energy solutions.
“The strong multi-stakeholder participation underscores a shared commitment to sustainable development of Lake Kariba’s energy resources and deeper cross-border cooperation to deliver reliable, affordable, and clean energy for the region,” noted ZRA after the meeting.
