Zimbabwe and China have sealed a deal to build a 100 megawatts green solar park valued at US$100 million, a project the government says will boost the country’s energy national grid, create employment and reduce load shedding.
Speaking on Tuesday during a tour of the China-Zim Green Energy solar park project in Mapanzure area in Zvishavane, Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution minister Owen Ncube said the two-phased project which covers a total area of approximately 150 hectares has a total installed capacity of 100 megawatts.
“Phase one, now at the final construction stage, covers a direct current installed capacity of 60 megawatt-peak and phase two is planned with a direct current installed capacity of 40 megawatt-peak,” Ncube said.
“Upon full completion and operation, the project will achieve an annual power generation of 200 million kilowatt-hours.
Ncube commended China-Zim Green Energy for employing 95% locals within its staff complement saying the project was contributing to local employment, energy security and economic development.
He said President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration adopted bold and strategic policy decisions to improve energy sufficiency, efficiency and security through incentives and duty free solar imports to unlock the country’s green energy potential.
“These initiatives resonate with the National Development Strategy 2 Infrastructure Development and Housing Pillar and the National Renewable Energy Policy that advocate for clean and renewable energy interventions,” he said.
Jemitias Moyo, a local and village elder in the area where the project is being constructed, applauded the partnership saying it had created jobs for youth in Mapanzure.
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