News / Local
Deal to revamp thermal power stations signed
06 Jun 2012 at 06:46hrs | Views
Cabinet yesterday approved a $230 million power deal between the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) and an Indian firm, Wapcos Limited, to revamp boilers at three thermal power stations in the country.
Energy and Power Development minister Elton Mangoma said Cabinet deliberated on the issue and gave it a nod.
Mangoma said experts would have to work out that but he would not disclose when the MoU was signed.
The thermal stations include Bulawayo, Hwange and Munyati.
The deal also involves a feasibility study for the Gairezi Hydro-Power Station and upgrading the Deka Pumping Station for Hwange Power Station.
Meanwhile, Zesa has acquired 10 000 pre-paid meters as it prepares to roll out a pilot project for the much awaited prepaid system. The prepaid system is expected to establish an efficient billing system.
The power utility is expected to receive 24 000 more pre-paid meters this week from 4 foreign companies contracted to supply the meters. Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company managing director Engineer Julian Chinembiri yesterday confirmed the development.
Zimbabwe is currently experiencing severe power supply problems most of which emanate from years of lack of investment in power generation as well as antiquated equipment at its major plants.
The electricity demand stands at 2 100 megawatts (MW) against internal dependable capacity of 1 700MW from Kariba Hydropower Station and several other thermal plants dotted around the country, with power imports from the region bridging the gap.
Energy and Power Development minister Elton Mangoma said Cabinet deliberated on the issue and gave it a nod.
Mangoma said experts would have to work out that but he would not disclose when the MoU was signed.
The thermal stations include Bulawayo, Hwange and Munyati.
Meanwhile, Zesa has acquired 10 000 pre-paid meters as it prepares to roll out a pilot project for the much awaited prepaid system. The prepaid system is expected to establish an efficient billing system.
The power utility is expected to receive 24 000 more pre-paid meters this week from 4 foreign companies contracted to supply the meters. Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company managing director Engineer Julian Chinembiri yesterday confirmed the development.
Zimbabwe is currently experiencing severe power supply problems most of which emanate from years of lack of investment in power generation as well as antiquated equipment at its major plants.
The electricity demand stands at 2 100 megawatts (MW) against internal dependable capacity of 1 700MW from Kariba Hydropower Station and several other thermal plants dotted around the country, with power imports from the region bridging the gap.
Source - newsday
