Plans to build a 150MW solar farm in Zimbabwe are nearing approval, according to the companies involved in its development.
Once permission has been given by the country’s Lands Ministry the joint venture behind the scheme will then finalise licensing with Zimbabwe Electricity Regulatory Authority (ZERA).
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The US$400 million project is being developed by Defemme Afrique Holdings, a joint venture by local firm De Opper Trading and UK-based Green Rhino Energy.
De Opper’s CEO Francis Gogwe told local press that the farm in Marondera wold be a boost for the local area.
“The project aims to ease electricity shortage in the region. It is unfortunate the country for a long time has been facing shortages of electricity. We will play a part in powering all the government departments with electricity,” Gogwe told News Day.
“It is also a platform to create employment for the local people. We will also rehabilitate electricity infrastructure in Marondera and other surrounding areas,” he added.
Gogwe predicted that construction planning could begin as early as this week.
Zimbabwe currently has five power stations generating an average of 1.3GW, short of the country’s peak demand of more than 2GW.
Green Rhino Energy was contacted by PV Tech but was not available for comment.