The government has called on coal mining companies in Hwange to establish power plants to utilise their accumulating thermal coal stockpiles, which are a byproduct of mining operations focused on coking coal.
Coking coal, located at deeper geological layers, requires the removal of overburden material, followed by the extraction of significant amounts of thermal coal making up approximately 70% of the total deposits.
Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo has raised concerns over the increasing stockpiles of thermal coal, warning that they could pose a fire hazard.
He encouraged mining firms to mitigate this risk by using the coal for power generation.
“These companies have accumulated vast amounts of thermal coal,” Minister Moyo stated while addressing the National Competitiveness Commission summit in Bulawayo last week.
“As a government, we are urging them to take action. The coal stockpiles could become a fire hazard.
Instead of letting them accumulate, why not establish power plants and generate electricity? The investment has already been made in extracting the coal, so the next logical step is to convert it into energy.”
He further noted that one company had already embarked on constructing a power plant, with commissioning expected in the near future.
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Thermal Power’s Role in Zimbabwe’s Energy Sector
Thermal power remains a critical component of Zimbabwe’s energy supply, with Hwange Power Station serving as the country’s primary source of electricity.
Historically, the nation has relied on coal reserves from Hwange to fuel its thermal power plants, supplemented by ageing facilities in Bulawayo, Munyati, and Harare.
However, decades of operation have led to infrastructure deterioration, frequent breakdowns, and reduced generation capacity.
Limited maintenance and underinvestment have further exacerbated these challenges.
Despite these setbacks, efforts to revitalise the sector continue. Expansion and refurbishment projects at Hwange Power Station reflect the government’s commitment to sustaining a reliable thermal energy supply.
With Lake Kariba’s hydroelectric output declining due to recurrent droughts and climate variability, Zimbabwe faces an energy shortfall, increasing the need for alternative sources such as coal-fired power generation.
Call for Diversified Energy Solutions
Minister Moyo also encouraged both businesses and households to adopt self-sufficient power generation methods to ease pressure on the national grid.
He highlighted the rising number of companies establishing independent power plants, particularly solar-based systems, as a positive step toward energy security.
“We are urging everyone to take initiative,” he said. “If we are to remain competitive and ensure a stable power supply, we must embrace innovation and invest in our own generation facilities.”
The government’s push for coal-powered electricity generation comes as part of broader efforts to secure Zimbabwe’s energy future while maximising the use of available resources.
