President Emmerson Mnangagwa recently officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for a major 720MW coal-fired thermal power plant in Hwange, a collaborative project between Titan New Energy and ZESA Holdings.
The Herald reports that Titan Energy has committed US$1 billion to the first phase of the project, which includes plans for an additional 200MW solar plant to be developed in Gweru under Phase 2. Construction on the facility is set to begin immediately, with some units expected to be up and running by the end of next year.
The Hwange power plant will utilize lower-quality coal, sourced from mining operations that would otherwise go to waste.
Speaking at the event, President Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of electricity in driving industrialization and its role in key sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. He stated:
“It is an honor to officiate at the groundbreaking ceremony for these critical energy projects. This is a significant milestone in our country’s efforts towards modernization, industrialization, and sustainable economic development, all underpinned by a strong energy sector.”
Mnangagwa also highlighted the critical role of electricity in supporting industrialization, particularly in sectors like mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. The Titan Thermal Power Plant will generate 720MW, while Afrochine is contributing an additional 100MW through a solar project in Selous. Additionally, the Titan investors will also develop a 200MW solar plant in Gweru, with both the Hwange and Gweru projects expected to be completed by December 2025.
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The President urged that local communities in Hwange, Chivhu, and Selous should benefit from these investments through job creation, economic stimulation, and skills development. He also called on investors to prioritize environmental, social, and governance standards in their projects.
Mnangagwa condemned the recent rise in vandalism of electricity infrastructure, stressing the need for swift action against those responsible.
This new power plant project is part of the broader initiatives discussed during President Mnangagwa’s recent visit to China, during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit in Beijing.