Zimplats Advances 185 MW Solar Program, Strengthening Zimbabwe’s Renewable Energy Investment Outlook

Zimplats has made significant progress in expanding renewable energy in Zimbabwe through its large-scale solar power development program. The company is investing around US$201 million to develop a total of 185MW of solar capacity in four phases, making it one of the country’s leading private renewable energy developers.

The first phase of the project has already been completed at the Selous Metallurgical Complex. The 35MW solar power plant has been fully commissioned and is now operating at its planned capacity. During the 2025 fiscal year, the plant generated more than 66GWh of clean electricity, helping reduce dependence on conventional power sources while supporting the company’s mining and processing operations with renewable energy.

Following the successful completion of the first phase, Zimplats has started construction of the second phase of the project. This stage will add another 45MW of solar generation capacity. The company expects to complete the project within the year, increasing its total installed solar capacity to 80MW. The remaining phases will further expand the overall capacity to the planned 185MW.

The progress of this large solar program highlights Zimbabwe’s growing renewable energy sector and demonstrates the country’s increasing focus on clean energy development. Rising electricity demand, along with the need for reliable power supplies, has encouraged investments in renewable energy projects across the country. Government support for clean energy initiatives has also created a more favorable environment for private sector participation.

The successful implementation of the Zimplats solar project is expected to strengthen investor confidence in Zimbabwe’s renewable energy market. It also creates opportunities for international and local investors, engineering companies, equipment manufacturers, and service providers looking to participate in the country’s expanding clean energy industry. As more renewable energy projects move forward, Zimbabwe is positioning itself as an emerging destination for sustainable energy investments, supporting both economic growth and the transition toward a cleaner and more reliable electricity system.