Africa Energy: Kariba South power extension to boost economic development

The new Zimbabwe administration led by President Emmerson Mnangagwa successfully completed the rehabilitation of Kariba South power extension Units seven (7) and eight (8), a positive development in the energy sector which will enhance economic development.
Quoted in a local weekly press, Energy and Power Development Minister, Simon Khaya Moyo said Unit 8 of Kariba South Hydro power station went on a test run for two weeks and is now waiting for its commissioning expected end of this month.

According to information from the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, President Mnangagwa is expected to commission Units 7 and 8 of Kariba South Power extension on the 28th of March.

The two Units are going to feed an additional 300 MW to the national grid. However, hydro power generators are at times affected by water levels in the dam. Thus, when water levels are low, there is usually less generation of electricity.

At its maximum capacity, Kariba South Hydro Power station is now expected to generate 1 000MW from its previous power generation of 700MW.

According to the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), as at 14 March 2018, Kariba Hydro South Power station is currently generating 493 MW, while Hwange and Harare thermal power station are generating 331 MW and 14 MW respectively making a total power generation of 838 MW.

Although there are a number of other forms of power generation projects like renewable energy sources such as solar and biogas digester plants which feeds into the national grid, the nation still needs to produce more in order to meet the national demand which currently stands at 1600 MW.

Currently, the nation is importing 300MW from neighbouring countries, South Africa and 50 MW from Hydro Cahora Basa Mozambique.

Since his inauguration, President Mnangagwa has always been preaching about Zimbabwe being open for business. Thus, the country is a safe destination and conducive environment to conduct business and all investors are welcomed.

As a safe place for conducting business, there is also need for the country to be self sufficient in terms of power supply to enable investors to conduct their business without any interruptions from power cuts. Some business people may be interested in investing in mining, steel making and cement plants which demands electricity.

It is essential to note that adequate electricity generation and supply is key to economic growth. In that case, energy can better be described as the oxygen of the economy. Thus, energy is the lifeblood of a vibrant economy which is crucial for the input of nearly all of the goods and services in the modern world.

Without heat, light and power one cannot build or run the factories and cities that provide commodities and create employment. With sufficient power, citizens can enjoy the amenities that make life more comfortable and enjoyable.