Gweru City Council has set sights on a 200 MW solar power joint venture as the local authority seeks to create a new income stream through electricity generation as well as cutting on energy costs.
In an interview, council economic and business development manager, Rodwell Musiiwa said the deal-with a yet to be named partner- was at a constructive stage but yet to be concluded.
“We are at the advanced stages of negotiations for a possible joint venture for a 200 megawatt solar farm,” Musiiwa said.
“The project is expected to create a significant new revenue stream for the city through electricity generation.
“It has the potential to transform our energy landscape, reduce reliance on the national grid and position Gweru as a leader in renewable energy.
“We can make reliable and sustainable energy and make the Midlands capital attractive to investors and businesses.”
Musiiwa said the solar farm is expected not only to power municipal operations but also supply excess energy to the national grid creating new revenue streams for the city and attracting investment into the region.
Gweru Residents and Ratepayers Development Association Trust executive director, David Chikore, said besides improving revenue for the city the solar power deal could also reduce the cost of water supply.
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“If it comes into fruition, this project could be a game changer for the city’s water supply,” Chikore said.
“We have been experiencing water shortages due to incessant Zesa power cuts and this development would be a step in the right direction.”
Over the years, residents have called on council to use solar as alternative energy at its water treatment plant to avert challenges bedevilling the city due to power cuts.
