Zimbabwe-Zambia energy summit excites Zera

The upcoming Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects Summit, set to take place in Victoria Falls from November 18 to 21, 2024, will serve as a pivotal platform for advancing sustainable energy solutions and enhancing regional cooperation. The summit, hosted under the theme "Powering Zimbabwe and Zambia's Sustainable Energy Future: Unlocking Opportunities in Renewables, Grid Modernisation, and Energy Access," reflects the commitment of both nations to secure a sustainable energy future.

Edington Mazambani, Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), expressed optimism about the potential of the summit to unlock opportunities for growth and collaboration in the energy sector. "Together, we will explore the vast opportunities in renewables, modernise our grids, and ensure energy access for all. Let us unite in our vision to power Zimbabwe and Zambia's sustainable energy future, unlocking potential for growth, innovation, and collaboration," Mazambani said in a statement.

The summit, which will be held under the patronage of Zimbabwe's Ministry of Energy and Power Development for 2024, is expected to be a cornerstone for unveiling and advancing energy project plans in both countries. It aims to bring together key energy stakeholders, including government ministries, utilities, regulators, energy organisations, international private sector investors, and technology providers, to drive sustainable energy initiatives forward.

Manoj Patil, director of Mining Engineering Services, a Vinmart Group company, highlighted the summit's importance in addressing the energy and infrastructure needs of the region, particularly in the context of the mining sector. "Having supported the mining sector in DRC for 14 years, we welcome this opportunity for important conversations that will unlock opportunities in energy and infrastructure across Zimbabwe and Zambia, and power a sustainable future," Patil said.

The summit comes at a time of heightened urgency in the region's energy sector, particularly following the Zambia Environmental Management Agency's US$1.76 billion investment into energy expansion. The need for increased energy capacity and infrastructure has become more pressing due to the devastating droughts that have affected eastern and southern Africa, leading to concerns about dams running dry and disrupting energy supply.

Key topics to be discussed at the summit include urgent grid infrastructure investment, the creation of attractive energy investment destinations, and the role of renewable energy in meeting universal energy access targets. As climate change exacerbates the region's energy challenges, innovations in renewable energy solutions will play a crucial role in ensuring reliable, sustainable power for both countries.

The summit will also focus on accelerating the financing of energy projects, with discussions aimed at establishing clear frameworks for risk mitigation and securing private investment. By bringing together energy leaders from Zimbabwe and Zambia, the summit aims to fast-track energy projects, ensuring they reach financial close and move toward implementation more swiftly.

Mortimer McKechnie, Senior Vice President and Energy & Power Leader for Africa at Marsh, emphasized the importance of collaboration. "This is an opportunity to come together, share experiences, and think innovatively. Linking capital and mitigating risk can boost development for both countries, and Marsh is very excited to be part of this summit," McKechnie said.

The bi-annual conference is a collaborative effort with international finance institutions and the private sector, aiming to foster greater investment in the region's energy sector and establish a clear path forward for achieving sustainable energy goals. As Zimbabwe and Zambia strive to meet their energy demands and reduce reliance on traditional energy sources, the summit is set to play a pivotal role in driving innovation, investment, and regional collaboration.