Zimbabwe Assesses Eight Sites for Wind Power Development

The assessments form part of the Energy Sector Reform Support Project, supported by the African Development Bank. The programme involves measuring wind speeds, analysing potential electricity output and conducting feasibility studies before investment decisions are made.

The initiative is part of Zimbabwe's efforts to diversify electricity generation beyond hydropower and coal-fired power, which have historically supplied most of the country's electricity.

Bulilima and Mangwe among identified locations

Bulilima and Mangwe districts in Matabeleland South have been identified for wind energy assessments under the project.

Other locations reported under consideration include Mount Darwin and Guruve in Mashonaland Central, as well as Vungu in the Midlands.

The programme provides for measurements at heights of approximately 80 to 100 metres over at least 12 months. This information is necessary to establish whether wind conditions are sufficiently strong and consistent to justify investment in turbines.

According to the African Development the assessments will also examine potential electricity output, grid requirements and environmental considerations.

Why Zimbabwe is exploring wind power

Zimbabwe's electricity supply has traditionally relied on Kariba South Hydropower Station and thermal generation, particularly Hwange.

Low water availability can restrict hydroelectric generation, while equipment failures, maintenance requirements and fuel supply constraints can affect thermal power stations.

Wind generation could provide another source of electricity if suitable sites are identified.

Unlike coal-fired generation, wind turbines do not require fuel during operation. Their output, however, varies with wind conditions, making accurate measurements and grid planning essential.

Energy costs remain a concern for businesses and consumers. The Granite Post previously reported on rising fuel prices and their effects on production and transport costs

Although wind power would not directly resolve fuel price increases, developing more domestic electricity generation could help strengthen the country's energy supply over time.

Feasibility studies will determine investment potential

The assessment programme does not mean construction of eight wind farms has been approved.

The purpose of the studies is to determine which locations, if any, can support technically and financially viable projects.

Developers will need reliable wind data, engineering designs, environmental approvals, financing and arrangements for connecting new generation facilities to the national electricity grid.

The government has also identified private investment as an important part of expanding electricity generation.

The feasibility studies are intended to provide investors with information needed to assess potential projects before committing substantial capital.

Electricity costs remain a challenge

Energy costs affect households, manufacturers, farmers and transport operators throughout Zimbabwe.

Businesses require dependable electricity to operate machinery, preserve products and maintain production schedules.

Unreliable supply can force companies to invest in backup generation, increasing operating costs.

Zimbabwe's exposure to international energy market disruptions was also highlighted in The Granite Post's coverage of the effects of conflict in the Middle East on local fuel supplies and industry.

Wind generation would not eliminate these pressures, but it could contribute to a more diversified electricity system if projects prove commercially viable.

What happens next

The next important step is completing the wind measurements and identifying locations with the strongest development potential.

Promising sites would then require detailed feasibility work, environmental assessments and investment arrangements before construction could begin.

For now, the project remains focused on establishing whether Zimbabwe has wind resources that can support electricity generation at a competitive cost.

The findings will determine whether wind power can move from a potential energy source to a practical contributor to the country's electricity supply.