Project Description
Project Type: Utility-Scale Solar PV
Proposed Capacity: 1,000 MW (1 GW)
Status: Development Pipeline – Expression of Interest (EOI) prepared; seeking government partnership under Zimbabwe’s renewable energy drive.
Timeline: 2025–2035 (phased development in 100 MW increments).
Technical Overview
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Design: Multiple clusters of 100–200 MW each.
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Location: Potential sites in Matabeleland, chosen for exceptional solar irradiance.
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Technology: EA’s highest-efficiency solar modules, including forthcoming Centauri selenium-interlayer cells (>40% efficiency in pilot stage).
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Storage: Potential integration of utility-scale battery storage or pumped hydro storage to ensure grid stability and firm output.
Strategic Importance
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At 1 GW, this would rank among Africa’s largest solar initiatives, significantly boosting Zimbabwe’s generation capacity.
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Supports Zimbabwe’s energy security amid persistent power shortages.
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Aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 renewable energy targets.
Partnership & Financing
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Lead Partner: Government of Zimbabwe (Ministry of Energy and Power Development).
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Engagement: Early conversations indicate interest in a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
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Financing Options: To be explored via export credit agencies, multilateral institutions, and climate finance channels.
Economic & Social Benefits
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Local Manufacturing: EA proposes establishing component assembly/manufacturing facilities in Zimbabwe.
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Capacity Building: Training programs for local engineers and technicians.
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Job Creation: Significant employment during construction and operation phases.
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Economic Growth: Boost to industrial and mining sectors through reliable power supply.
Verification & Next Steps
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Project listed in EA’s Africa pipeline briefing.
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Awaiting government Request for Proposals (RFP) or Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize engagement.
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Detailed feasibility studies and environmental assessments to follow post-government approval.
