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After a Long Wait, Zimbabwe’s Utility-Scale Solar Sector is Finally Starting to Grow
For years, Zimbabwe's energy sector has been caught in a perfect storm of ageing infrastructure and climate-induced droughts. But now, a new dawn is breaking as major utility-scale solar projects are finally coming online, signaling a powerful shift in the nation's energy landscape.
A Perfect Storm: The Power Crisis Explained
Zimbabwe's national grid has been hobbled by its reliance on old, breakdown-prone thermal power plants at Hwange. While two new units have helped, the frequent failure of older units creates a constant power deficit.
The country's other major power source, the 1,050 MW Kariba Dam hydropower plant, has been crippled by recurring droughts. Low water levels have forced the Zambezi River Authority to curtail generation to as low as 100 MW, triggering nationwide load shedding for the third time in five years.
For decades, a chaotic currency environment has made it nearly impossible for Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to secure financing for long-term projects. Despite over 100 licensed solar projects, very few have managed to reach financial close—until now.
The Good News: Solar Giants Emerge
The latest success story is Centragrid's 25 MW solar power plant in Nyabira, which is now feeding directly into the national grid. Made possible by local investment from pension funds like NSSA and Old Mutual, it is a landmark achievement for the sector.
Currently the largest utility-scale solar plant in the country, Zimplat's 35 MW facility near Selous is just the first phase of an ambitious 185 MW project. With Phase 2 (a 45 MW plant) already in the pipeline, it signals a major commitment to renewable energy from the corporate sector.
The Momentum is Building
This is just the beginning. Several other major projects are set to break ground, including a 36 MW plant for PPC cement, a 100 MW plant for Afrochine, and another 100 MW facility for the new Dinson Steel plant in Manhize. In total, Zimbabwean firms are on track to add over 450 MW of utility-scale solar capacity in the next few years.
Frequently Asked Questions
The crisis is caused by two main factors: ageing and unreliable coal-fired power plants at Hwange, and severe, climate-induced droughts that have drastically reduced electricity generation from the Kariba Dam hydropower station. These challenges have led to frequent load shedding and an urgent push for renewable energy alternatives like solar power.
Utility-scale solar plants are large, centralized solar farms designed to generate electricity at a commercial scale and feed it directly into the national grid. Unlike small residential or rooftop systems, these projects can power thousands of homes and businesses while supporting national energy goals. They play a vital role in diversifying Zimbabwe’s energy mix.
Independent Power Producers (IPPs) like Centragrid, as well as major corporations such as Zimplats, PPC, and Dinson Steel, are spearheading Zimbabwe’s solar expansion. Centragrid recently completed the 25 MW Nyabira Solar Farm and plans to scale up to 100 MW. Meanwhile, Zimplats has commissioned a 35 MW solar plant and aims to expand capacity to 185 MW.
Thanks to projects by Centragrid, Zimplats, PPC, Afrochine, and Dinson Steel, Zimbabwe is projected to add over 450 MW of new utility-scale solar capacity in the coming years. These developments are key to achieving national energy independence and transitioning toward a sustainable power future.
The Nyabira Solar Farm is a 25 MW photovoltaic (PV) power plant located in Nyabira, Mashonaland West Province, approximately 35 kilometers from Harare. Developed and operated by Centragrid Energy Systems Africa, it’s one of Zimbabwe’s most significant renewable energy projects, supplying clean power directly into the national grid.
The solar farm was developed and is operated by Centragrid Energy Systems Africa, an independent power producer (IPP). It is largely funded by Zimbabwean capital, with major investors including Old Mutual Zimbabwe, the National Social Security Authority (NSSA), and local pension funds — showcasing the potential for homegrown investment in renewable energy.
The Nyabira Solar Farm currently produces 25 megawatts (MW) of electricity following its 2024 expansion. The project began in 2019 with an initial 2.5 MW capacity before growing tenfold through additional phases of development.
The facility is located in Nyabira, in Zimbabwe’s Mashonaland West Province, roughly 35 kilometers northwest of Harare along the Harare–Chirundu highway. Its strategic location allows efficient transmission and distribution of power into the national grid.
- Phase 1 (2.5 MW): Became operational in August 2019, marking one of the first private solar contributions to the national grid.
- Phase 2 (22.5 MW): Completed in October 2024, expanding total capacity to 25 MW. The project faced challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and limited access to foreign currency for imports, but overcame these through local investment and innovation.
The farm features approximately 70,000 polycrystalline solar modules installed across 50 hectares. These are mounted on horizontal single-axis trackers that follow the sun’s movement from east to west, increasing overall energy output by around 25% compared to fixed-panel installations.
- Energy Security: Adds significant clean power to the grid, reducing blackouts and dependency on imports.
- Local Investment: Demonstrates that renewable energy projects can be financed domestically, empowering Zimbabwe’s economy.
- Environmental Impact: Generates zero-emission electricity, cutting carbon output and promoting sustainability.
- Job Creation: Provides construction and maintenance employment, stimulating local communities.
Centragrid plans to expand the Nyabira Solar Farm to 100 MW in the coming years. Construction of the next phase is expected to begin in 2025, further solidifying Zimbabwe’s transition toward a renewable-powered economy.
Zimbabwe’s Solar Authority: Products, Power and Proven Expertise
Welcome to Wessex Solar Zimbabwe, your trusted source for reliable solar solutions. As an authorized dealer of top brands like Codi, SRNE, Must and Sako inverters, Canadian, Jinko, and JA Solar panels, and SVolts, Leoch, and Polaris batteries, we provide high-quality products and expert guidance for homes and businesses across Zimbabwe.
Our mission is to make solar energy accessible and sustainable. With in-depth insights, professional advice, and customer-focused service, we help you harness the sun’s power efficiently. Join us on the journey to a brighter, greener future with Wessex Solar Zimbabwe.
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