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Zimbabwe cuts power exports to ease load-shedding
15 Dec 2024 at 09:10hrs | Views
Zimbabwe has significantly reduced power exports to neighbouring countries to bolster local electricity supplies, leading to a notable reduction in load-shedding across the country over the past two weeks.
This development coincides with improved power generation at the Hwange Thermal Power Station, where the newly commissioned Units 7 and 8, along with six older units, have been operating at near-peak capacity. As a result, many residential areas are now enjoying over 18 hours of uninterrupted electricity supply daily.
Last week, Hwange consistently generated around 1,000 megawatts (MW), while the Kariba South Hydro Power Station contributed an average of 125MW. Independent power producers added approximately 50MW to the national grid.
The power supply situation is expected to further improve as industries begin their annual shutdowns for the festive season, reducing demand on the grid.
Despite these improvements, Energy and Power Development Minister Edgar Moyo has urged caution, noting the vulnerability of Hwange's older units to breakdowns, which could potentially disrupt supply.
"Units 7 and 8 are consistent performers, and Units 1 to 6 have been performing well lately. However, these older units are prone to frequent breakdowns," Minister Moyo said.
He revealed that Zimbabwe has reduced its power exports from 254MW to 110MW, a move aimed at minimising domestic load-shedding.
The reduction in load-shedding has been warmly received by residents.
"We are appreciative of the Government's efforts in trying to provide electricity at critical times," said Ms. Penelope Nyakura, a Borrowdale resident.
Mr. Wisdom Mudimu, also from Borrowdale West, commended the power utility for its responsiveness. "We have had no challenges with electricity in our area, though there are outages here and there. We appreciate how the power utility is engaging with us to redress all issues that arise when there is a fault."
While the current stability is encouraging, the Government acknowledges the need to address the reliability of Hwange's older units. Efforts to further strengthen the country's power infrastructure remain a priority, especially as Zimbabwe seeks to meet growing domestic demand and support economic growth.
The improved supply highlights the potential of recent investments in energy infrastructure, particularly the commissioning of Units 7 and 8, as Zimbabwe continues to work towards energy security and sustainability.
This development coincides with improved power generation at the Hwange Thermal Power Station, where the newly commissioned Units 7 and 8, along with six older units, have been operating at near-peak capacity. As a result, many residential areas are now enjoying over 18 hours of uninterrupted electricity supply daily.
Last week, Hwange consistently generated around 1,000 megawatts (MW), while the Kariba South Hydro Power Station contributed an average of 125MW. Independent power producers added approximately 50MW to the national grid.
The power supply situation is expected to further improve as industries begin their annual shutdowns for the festive season, reducing demand on the grid.
Despite these improvements, Energy and Power Development Minister Edgar Moyo has urged caution, noting the vulnerability of Hwange's older units to breakdowns, which could potentially disrupt supply.
"Units 7 and 8 are consistent performers, and Units 1 to 6 have been performing well lately. However, these older units are prone to frequent breakdowns," Minister Moyo said.
The reduction in load-shedding has been warmly received by residents.
"We are appreciative of the Government's efforts in trying to provide electricity at critical times," said Ms. Penelope Nyakura, a Borrowdale resident.
Mr. Wisdom Mudimu, also from Borrowdale West, commended the power utility for its responsiveness. "We have had no challenges with electricity in our area, though there are outages here and there. We appreciate how the power utility is engaging with us to redress all issues that arise when there is a fault."
While the current stability is encouraging, the Government acknowledges the need to address the reliability of Hwange's older units. Efforts to further strengthen the country's power infrastructure remain a priority, especially as Zimbabwe seeks to meet growing domestic demand and support economic growth.
The improved supply highlights the potential of recent investments in energy infrastructure, particularly the commissioning of Units 7 and 8, as Zimbabwe continues to work towards energy security and sustainability.
Source - The Sunday Mail
