Capital investment needed to improve power generation in the country- ZETDC Group Finance Director

The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) Group Finance Director Mr. Eliab Chikwenhere says there is urgent need for investment in capital-intensive projects such as Hwange Electricity Supply Company (HESCO), as a way to improve power generation in the country.

HESCO is a $1,5 billion project funded by China Exim Bank, Sinohydro and the government through the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC). Sinohydro currently hold a significant 36% stake in the project.

Addressing the Energy and Power Development committee induction workshop that was held recently at a local venue in Bulawayo, Mr. Chikwenhere stated that ZESA has strategically embraced Public Private Partnerships particularly in transmission projects such as Dinson, Bikita Minerals and Zimplants in transmission line projects.

Chikwenhere further stressed on the imperative need for legislative support to facilitate the implementation of emergency electricity infrastructure rehabilitation programs, aimed at restoring the integrity of the generation, transmission and distribution systems as well as constructing backbone infrastructure, after years of sub-economic tariffs have hindered the organization’s growth and development.

Currently the country’s total electricity access stands at 62%, with 34% of the population connected to the grid and additional 28% utilizing alternative forms of electricity, such as solar power.

Reporter: Andile Mvundla