Zimplats has started building a 45MW solar plant in Selous, Zimbabwe, marking a significant step in its multi-phase, $201 million solar power initiative designed to support its extensive platinum mining operations. This project is a cornerstone of the company’s and the nation’s push towards a more sustainable energy future.
Zimplats Solar Plant Project Details
Zimplats, a subsidiary of Impala Platinum Holdings Limited, has initiated construction on a 45MW solar plant at its Selous mine. Officially designated as Phase 2A of the company’s renewable energy program, this plant is a critical component of a larger strategy to ensure a stable and clean energy supply for its operations. Located 80 km southwest of Harare, the solar farm is now scheduled for completion in the first half of 2027.
This new facility builds upon the success of the initial 35 MW Phase 1A plant, which became operational in August 2024. Upon commissioning, the 45 MW addition will bring Zimplats’ total installed solar capacity to 80 MW. The entire renewable energy project aims to eventually deliver 185 MW to the national grid across three phases. This ambitious plan will significantly boost the country’s energy infrastructure and support the government’s goal of increasing renewable energy capacity.
Once fully operational, the power generated will provide a reliable supply to Zimplats’ Selous Metallurgical Complex, Ngezi Mine, and the company’s head office in Harare. Furthermore, any surplus energy will be supplied to the national grid through a net-metering arrangement, contributing to the stability of the nation’s power supply.
Solar Project Funding for the Zimplats solar plant
The new 45MW plant represents a US$54 million investment, part of Zimplats’ broader $1.8 billion expansion program that also includes the development of new underground mines and concentrators. This specific solar energy project underscores the company’s commitment to both operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
The engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract is being managed by Distributed Power Africa (DPA Zimbabwe), a subsidiary of the Econet Group, which will also handle long-term operations and maintenance.
This initiative is part of a larger trend reflected in recent Zimbabwe solar news, where numerous companies are investing heavily in renewable energy. The nation is seeing a surge in solar development, from the inauguration of the large-scale 100 MW Melfort Solar Power Plant to specialized installations like solar plants for airports and even power stations to support solar data centers.
Impact of Zimplats solar plant Project
The Zimplats solar project is poised to have a significant positive impact on Zimbabwe’s energy sector. With the country working to overcome persistent power shortages, large-scale private sector investments like this are essential to bridging the generation gap and reducing the frequent power outages that have hindered economic growth.
To encourage such investments, Zimbabwe’s government has implemented supportive policies, including tax incentives for solar energy adoption. The removal of import duty on key components like solar panels, inverters, and batteries has made it more affordable for both businesses and households to invest in solar power. Understanding the basics of solar panel manufacturing can provide further insight into the value chain these policies support.
The Zimplats project is not just a strategic move for the company’s decarbonization goals; it represents a major step forward for Zimbabwe’s entire renewable energy sector. As the country continues to face energy challenges, investments like this will play a crucial role in building a more stable, resilient, and sustainable energy future for all.
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