The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) will carry out mandatory inspections and re-inspections across the country.
In a notice released on Thursday, 27 March, ZETDC said these inspections are meant to ensure the safety and reliability of electrical systems, helping to protect the lives and property of electricity users. ZETDC said:
<blockquote>
Recent incidents of house fires and electrical accidents underscore the critical importance of maintaining safe electrical installations.
These inspections are not just procedural, but are a vital step in preventing potentially devastating consequences.
Unsafe wiring, faulty connections, and non-compliant installations pose serious risks to electricity users and members of the public.
ZETDC is dedicated to ensuring that all electrical systems meet the highest safety standards. These inspections will identify and rectify potential hazards, minimizing the risk of electrical fires, shocks, and other dangers.
</blockquote>
To facilitate these essential safety measures, ZETDC announced that a fee of US$25 will be charged to all customers for statutory inspections and re-inspections.
For generator verification and safety inspections, the fee for generators up to 100KW (petrol, diesel, solar, wind, etc.) is US$5, while for generators above 100KW, the fee increases to US$50.
For advanced safety inspections, owners of generators below 100KW will pay US$20, while those with generators above 100KW will pay US$100. Operators of prototype generators below 100KW will also be required to pay US$100.
The power utility further advised its customers that all payments must be made through official ZETDC payment platforms, and a receipt will be provided as proof of payment. ZETDC said that no payments should be made to individuals during the inspection process. ZETDC added:
<blockquote>
We understand that inspections may cause some inconvenience, but the safety of your family and property is paramount. We urge all customers to cooperate fully with our inspection teams.
By adhering to these statutory requirements and cooperating with ZETDC, we can collectively create a safer environment for everyone.
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) will be closely monitoring that these inspections are done within the confines of the regulations to ensure the safety of all installations.
</blockquote>
However, ZETDC did not specify the start and end dates for the inspections and re-inspections.

Pindula News

Zimbabwe's electricity company, ZETDC, will check all buildings for safety. They want to prevent fires and accidents caused by bad wiring. Customers will have to pay a fee for these inspections. The fee depends on the size of the generator. Customers must pay through official ZETDC platforms and get a receipt. ZETDC wants everyone to cooperate and follow the safety rules. The government will make sure the inspections are done properly. Dates for the inspections were not mentioned.

ZESA To Conduct Mandatory Inspections And Re-Inspections On All Premises Countrywide

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) projects that liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) consumption will reach 70 million kilograms in 2024, up from 66 million kilograms in 2023.
This increase in LPG usage is largely due to the ongoing electricity crisis, which has forced businesses and households to endure daily power outages of up to 18 hours.
In 2022, LPG consumption was 59.89 million kilograms, marking a 5.47% rise from 56.78 million kilograms in 2021.
Speaking at a media stakeholder engagement in Bulawayo on Wednesday, ZERA’s Head of Petroleum Department, Andrew Guri, said that Zimbabwe has set a new record for gas usage in Southern Africa. Said Guri (via <a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/zimbabwes-lpg-usage-to-hit-record-70-million-kilograms-in-2024/">The Sunday News</a>):
<blockquote>
Last year, the country used 66 million kilograms of gas and this year we project usage to be about 70 million kilograms.
There’s no other country where people have become so comfortable with LPG than Zimbabwe. In Zambia, they are always coming to us, asking, ‘What have you done in Zimbabwe to make people so comfortable with LPG?’
Whatever the case, the outcome is good that people have migrated or shifted to LP gas. LPG is actually known as the modern fuel and the transition to cleaner energies as we move to renewable energies.
</blockquote>
Guri said the country’s LPG consumption has risen from under 1 kilogram per person per year in 2012 to around 4.5 kilograms per person today, marking significant progress in cleaner energy adoption.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The use of LPG in Zimbabwe is going up because there is not enough electricity. People and businesses have power cuts for up to 18 hours a day. In 2024, it is predicted that 70 million kilograms of LPG will be used, up from 66 million in 2023. This is a record for Southern Africa. Zimbabweans are using more LPG now which is cleaner than other fuels. In 2012, they used less than 1 kg per person a year and now they use around 4.5 kg per person. This is good for the environment.

Zimbabwe’s LPG Usage Soars As Electricity Crisis Drives Demand

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has attributed the country’s chronic electricity shortages to a combination of factors, including contractual agreements with neighbouring countries.
While Zimbabwe struggles to generate enough power to meet domestic demand, it is also bound by agreements to export electricity to countries like Namibia.
Victor Sibanda, a ZERA Research and Energy Efficiency Engineer, provided an overview of the power supply challenges during a media engagement with ZERA in Bulawayo on Wednesday.
He said that in 2023, Zimbabwe’s average electricity supply was around 1,640 megawatts, falling short of the average demand of 1,865 megawatts.
The situation worsened on November 5, 2024, when the country generated only 1,092 megawatts against a demand of 1,760 megawatts, creating a deficit of 668 megawatts.
Although imports helped cover part of the shortfall, supplying 235 megawatts, exports still amounted to 176 megawatts.
Sibanda explained that load shedding is a result of the need to balance limited supply with the demand for critical services.
He said that power distribution is uneven, with essential services such as hospitals, security installations, and water facilities being prioritized to avoid outages whenever possible. Said Sibanda:
<blockquote>
We cannot have a hospital on load shedding, a water-based location, or institutions of security on load shedding, it’s a simple fact.
Sometimes, the substation where electricity is coming from, the line passes from a residential area to a hospital, people there will benefit because of that, not because we are not supposed to not shed them.
By nature of being close to the hospital, properties will also have the benefits and disadvantages of being close to the hospital.
</blockquote>
He said load shedding was “not an issue of punishment” but an effort to “maintain an equilibrium of what we have and what the system will deliver.” Said Sibanda:
<blockquote>
Mostly the ones who are affected are residential and other non-essential industries who are the ones who are affected. I don’t think there is favouritism when it comes to load shedding.
Don’t blame your local ZESA people. Sometimes they don’t even know when it happens. It’s controlled from somewhere.
They are actually asked to go and switch off where they are staying in some instances. It’s basically like that but it’s not a punishment.
</blockquote>
The ZERA official also revealed that despite national shortages, Zimbabwe exports electricity to neighbouring countries. He said:
<blockquote>
We send about zero to eight megawatts to Namibia, depending on availability because it’s a contractual agreement, it was financed by the Namibian government.
And how we repay it is if we do it, we supply the electricity. But when it’s out, we don’t supply the electricity.
</blockquote>
Sibanda said exporting surplus electricity can be economically beneficial, especially when the national grid produces excess power during off-peak hours. 
For instance, Zambia’s copper mining industry, which operates continuously, buys power from Zimbabwe during these hours when electricity is cheaper.
This arrangement enables Zimbabwe to generate revenue from surplus energy that cannot be stored. Said Sibanda:
<blockquote>
Zambia operates its copper mines which require electricity 24/7. They might also choose to get electricity off-peak. That’s when electricity is cheap, probably Zambia’s electricity would be expensive. 
They might choose to get electricity from Zimbabwe, which is cheap because Zimbabwe also has a lot of electricity, which they are not using. So they might also opt to buy from us.
Those are some of the scenarios of us exporting, while we still are in a deficit.
</blockquote>
Sibanda said that energy wastage is a major challenge, estimating that around 300 megawatts, or 20% of Zimbabwe’s national supply, is lost due to inefficient equipment and careless use.
He emphasized the need for improved efficiency standards and conservation practices to make better use of the limited electricity.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe doesn't have enough electricity because it has to send some to other countries. The country's demand for electricity is more than what it can generate. As a result, there are power cuts in some areas to balance the supply. Important places like hospitals and security places get electricity first to avoid outages. Zimbabwe also exports electricity to get money, especially when they have extra power. But many people still waste electricity, which is a big problem. It's important to save electricity and use it wisely.

Load Shedding Driven By Low Generation And Export Obligations - ZERA

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has identified substandard solar panel products and improper installations as the leading causes of fatal electrical accidents in the country.
This year alone, at least 27 fatalities have been recorded from electrical incidents, with over 200 reported accidents—an alarming increase from the 45 deaths reported last year.
ZERA senior engineer Man’arai Ndovorwi presented these statistics during a stakeholder engagement in Bulawayo, which aimed to gather public feedback on the draft Energy Solar Products and Installation Regulations Act (ESPIRA).
He said the country loses an average of three to four lives each month due to faulty solar installations and counterfeit products. He said:
<blockquote>
We lose about three to four people every month due to bad installations, and we have heard numerous complaints from the market about fake products and poor-quality installation.
For anyone involved in installing solar systems, they should have undergone proper training in designing and installing these systems safely. We need to ensure that safety mechanisms are in place to prevent accidents.
</blockquote>
Ndovorwi explained that the combination of solar-powered systems and connections to the national grid if not properly installed, can pose a risk of electrocution. He said (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200034607/substandard-solar-installations-fuel-infernos-zera">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
People are setting up solar systems at their premises alongside ZESA installations, and if the installation isn’t done properly, electrocutions can occur.
Fowl runs, where electricity is extended, have also been identified as major contributors to electrical accidents.
Poor workmanship can lead to dangerous situations, with people being electrocuted inside these structures.
</blockquote>
Thubelihle Ndlovu, a ZERA electrical inspector for Bulawayo and the Matabeleland region, announced a new safety rule that will require all households to install a circuit breaker to help reduce the growing number of electrical accidents. Said Ndlovu:
<blockquote>
We are introducing a new regulation to reduce electrical accidents. A mandatory breaker will now be required for all households to ensure that in the event of any fault, even the smallest one, it will isolate the circuit and prevent a fatal incident.
</blockquote>
He explained that many current circuit breakers in homes are not working properly, failing to detect faults until it’s too late.
The new circuit breakers, however, will be more sensitive and are expected to prevent dangerous accidents by preventing potentially deadly accidents.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZERA says bad solar panels and installations are causing many people to get hurt or die from electricity. 27 people have died this year and over 200 accidents have happened. Solar panels need to be installed properly to avoid accidents. Having circuit breakers in all homes can help stop accidents from happening. The new circuit breakers will be better at finding faults and preventing accidents. People need to be trained properly before installing solar panels to avoid accidents.

ZERA Blames Substandard Solar Panels, Poor Installations For Rise In Electrical Accidents

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has shut down more than 70 unlicensed fuel stations suspected of selling petroleum products from unauthorised suppliers and failing to meet regulatory standards.
Between January and July of this year, over 130 liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) retail sites operating without the necessary licenses were also closed.
In a recent interview with <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/zera-shuts-down-73-unlicensed-fuel-stations">The Sunday Mail</a>, ZERA chief executive officer Edington Mazambani said that unlicensed fuel retailers faced fines ranging from US$200 to US$700 while unlicensed LPG retailers were fined between US$30 and US$600. Said Mazambani:
<blockquote>
Seventy-three liquid and 136 LPG retail sites have been closed and prosecuted for operating without the requisite petroleum retail licences from January to July 2024.
The penalties have ranged from US$200 to US$700 for liquid fuels and US$30 to US$600 for LPG. The fines are based on the Petroleum Act of 2006 which provides the maximum fine as Level 9.
ZERA, however, feels the fines are low and is working with relevant Government agencies to make the fines stiffer and more deterrent to ensure that operators do not repeat the same offence.
At the same time, we are also developing a system for spot fines, which will quicken the enforcement process and impose stiffer penalties.
</blockquote>
Mazambani said ZERA employs various methods to identify unlicensed fuel stations, including surprise inspections, market surveillance, and partnerships with law enforcement.
He added that these sites not only breach the law but often obtain fuel from unauthorised suppliers, failing to meet safety and infrastructure standards, which poses risks to vehicle owners.
ZERA works with several government agencies, including the Ministry of Energy and Power Development and the Attorney-General’s Office, to enforce compliance with licensing regulations and ensure a safe energy sector.
ZERA also conducts joint compliance fieldwork with the police and maintains strong relationships with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) and the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), as well as local authorities for inspections and enforcement.
The number of fuel stations in Zimbabwe has surged in recent years. In 2012, there were 299 licensed stations, but by 2023, this number had soared to 1,048 licensed operators.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) closed 73 fuel stations and 130 LPG sites for not having proper licenses. The fines for unlicensed fuel stations range from US$200 to US$700, and for LPG sites from US$30 to US$600. ZERA wants to make the fines stricter to prevent repeat offenses. They look for unlicensed stations through surprise checks and work with other agencies like the police. These unlicensed stations pose risks to vehicle owners. The number of fuel stations in Zimbabwe has increased from 299 in 2012 to 1,048 in 2023.

73 Unlicensed Fuel Service Stations Shut Down

Some fuel dealers have reportedly defied a government directive and continue to sell unleaded and toxic fuel in violation of the law.
The government banned the sale of unleaded petrol, effective September 1, 2024, by introducing Statutory Instrument 150 of 2024, which provides the mandatory blending of anhydrous ethanol with petrol.
However, a snap survey conducted this week by <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/toxic-fuel-floods-zim/">Business Times</a> revealed that several service stations including Puma, Trek, Zuva and Redan outlets have defied the government directive and are still selling unleaded petrol.
In contrast, Total Energies, Engen and Glow service stations have complied with the law.
In an interview with Business Times, Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) CEO Edington Mazambani said that the regulatory body conducts random inspections to ensure fuel dealers’ compliance with regulations.
These unannounced checks aim to maintain standards and prevent malpractice in the fuel industry. Mazambani said:
<blockquote>
Government has not relaxed the fuel blending regulations. All fuel transported through the pipeline is blended before upliftment from either Feruka or Msasa depots.
ZERA, through fuel quality compliance checks, on the adherence to specifications as provided in fuel quality regulations.
</blockquote>
Mazambani said ZERA was intensifying its crackdown on fuel companies and was taking measures to make punishment for offenders more deterrent. He said:
<blockquote>
ZERA is sharpening enforcement and regulatory tools by initiating, developing and reviewing fuel quality standards and regulations to make punishments more deterrent.
ZERA is increasing its monitoring and enforcement capacity by establishing and adequately manning regional offices to increase the frequency of random testing and responsiveness to complaints.
ZERA is working closely with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to enforce fuel quality regulations through site closures and arrests of operators.
</blockquote>
Mazambani also said ZERA has resolved to name and shame fuel service stations found to have contaminated fuel. He said:
<blockquote>
ZERA has always conducted fuel quality monitoring in the market with zero tolerance for fuel contamination and adulteration.
The naming of those service stations caught with contaminated fuel is meant to raise consumer awareness and encourage service stations to comply with set fuel quality standards and specifications.
The problem is not limited to Harare alone. The list published shows companies caught and prosecuted so far between January and June 2024 country wide covering Quarters 1 and 2 of the year.
Bulawayo, Mutare, Masvingo, Ruwa, and Marondera each had sites prosecuted in the period. Harare has more than 50% of the total fuel retail sites in the country and this also shows in the statistics of convictions.
ZERA shall be publishing the lists of convicted retail sites countrywide at the end of Quarter 3 in September 2024 upon finalisation of their cases.
</blockquote>
Last month, ZERA took decisive action against non-compliant fuel stations. The authority convicted and fined 12 stations for selling contaminated fuel, while also revoking the operating license of one establishment.
ZERA has expressed grave concern over the alarming increase in toxic or contaminated fuel infiltrating the Zimbabwean market, describing the current levels as unprecedented.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Some fuel dealers in Zimbabwe are still selling toxic fuel, even though the government banned unleaded petrol and requires fuel to be blended with ethanol since September 2024. Some stations are following the law, but others are not. The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority is cracking down on non-compliant stations and taking measures to punish offenders. They are also naming and shaming stations found to have contaminated fuel. The problem is not just in Harare, but also in other cities. The authority has already fined some stations and revoked the license of one. They are concerned about the high levels of toxic fuel in the market.

Toxic Fuel Floods Zimbabwe As Fuel Firms Defy Government

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) is developing a regulatory framework to guide the quality of imported solar products.
Speaking at a recent meeting with stakeholders in the energy sector in Harare, ZERA Chief Executive Officer Eddington Mazambani said some of the solar products being imported into the country are of poor quality. He said (via <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/science/regulatory-framework-for-importation-of-solar-products-on-the-cards/">ZBC News</a>):
<blockquote>
We have had concerns with the quality of solar products coming into the country. We realised that we had a gap in terms of laws to enforce on the quality of solar products.
We are now crafting regulations to ensure products coming into the country are of high quality in terms of generation, we have now seen projects coming through for dedicated customers and projects for what we call captive customers.
</blockquote>
At the meeting, the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI) representative, Elizabeth Boore, urged ZERA to formulate a competitive tariff regime to prevent industry from shutting down.
The issues of power purchase agreements and the setting of tariffs for independent power producers were also discussed at the stakeholder meeting.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe wants to stop bad quality solar products from coming into the country. They are making rules to make sure only good quality solar products can be brought in. The boss of the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) talked about this at a meeting in Harare. They want to have laws to control the quality of solar products. They also talked about making fair prices for buying solar power. This will help the industry stay strong. The Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries also wants ZERA to make good rules about prices. They are working on making things better for everyone.

Zimbabwe Moves To Bar Importation Of Substandard Solar Products

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) says it has taken action against six fuel service stations in Bulawayo that were selling contaminated fuel and blended fuel claiming it is unleaded.
ZERA chief executive officer, Eddington Mazambani, on Tuesday told the<a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/contaminated-fuel-six-filling-stations-exposed/"> Chronicle</a> that the errant fuel dealers have been dragged to court and fined different amounts.
The six companies are Meizon Amakhosi, Petromoc Exor, Clean Liquids, Clean Easy, Heaven S/St, and Oil Twenty 20.
Meizon Amakhosi, Bulawayo, was fined US$$300 for selling contaminated diesel and Petromoc Exor, which was charged for selling blended fuel as unblended and was fined US$300.
Clean Liquids has also been charged for selling contaminated diesel and fined US$300, the same as Clean Easy which was fined US$400.
Heaven S/St, Bulawayo was fined US$150 for selling contaminated diesel, while Oil Twenty 20 was fined US$400 for selling contaminated fuel. Said Mazambani:
<blockquote>
The location and allocation of land for service stations are governed by the local authorities concerned.
Service stations are required to meet EMA and Fire Departments’ safe storage of fuel requirements.
Ultimately, service stations need a ZERA license to operate and before they are given the license, they must demonstrate compliance with the following key standards or codes for the petroleum industry.
</blockquote>
He said ZERA does not only enforce standards but also conducts awareness training sessions with stakeholders on the standards and best practices to facilitate compliance.
In November 2023, the Ministry of Energy and Power Development adopted the revised ZWS753:2020 (Unleaded Petrol) standard, as the standard for unleaded petrol.
All fuel importers were advised that in five months they would be expected to import fuel that meets or exceeds specifications laid out in the revised standard.
In a general notice number 1884 0f 2023, ZERA stated that the revised standard ZWS 753:2020 allows for the importation of cleaner and superior unleaded petrol that is compatible with modern and improved vehicle technologies and eliminates vapour lock problems previously encountered at service stations.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Six Filling Stations Fined For Selling Contaminated Fuel

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) says the ongoing power cuts in the country are due to several factors including low water levels at Kariba Dam.
Speaking to ZTN Prime, ZERA Board Chairperson David Madzikanda revealed that the power utility ZESA Holdings has no money to import electricity from neighbouring countries.
This is despite the recent increase in power tariffs by the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), a ZESA subsidiary, which however is not cost-reflective.
Madzikanda also said the small power stations situated in Harare, Bulawayo, and Munyati are not generating any power at all and are on the verge of being shut down. He said:
<blockquote>
Generation at Kariba is very much depleted largely because of water inflows. Secondly, we have not been able to import as much as we should be, because if we were importing, we would be filling in the gap.
The other reason is that the old power stations which are which are stations in Harare, Bulawayo and Munyati are currently not running. We are almost at the stage of shutting them down.
The other problem has obviously been to do with the fact that Unit 7 (at Hwange Power Station). For those reasons, we have shortages of power.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, Energy and Power Development Minister Edgar Moyo said an additional 120 megawatts will be added to the grid this coming week and in addition to the return of Hwange’s Unit 7, load shedding is expected to ease. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
One of the units carrying about 80MW came through, another one will be coming through in a day or two’s time with 120MW.
Next week, on the 27th or 28th (of November), our Unit 7, which is carrying about 305MW will also be coming on board. That should ease our load-shedding schedule.
</blockquote>
Currently, Zimbabwe requires 1 850MW but on Friday, 24 November 2023, the country was generating 1 285MW, with 41MW coming from IPPs, while Kariba and Hwange were producing 570MW and 674MW, respectively.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZERA Chairperson Speaks On Load Shedding

A Bulawayo fuel service station, Meizon Petroleum, was on Thursday arraigned before Magistrate Nomagugu Maphosa for selling contaminated diesel.
The fuel retailer, represented by Rangarirai Levison, pleaded guilty to the charge and was fined US$300 by the magistrate.
The court heard that on 19 September 2022, Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) inspectors visited the Meizon Petroleum fuel station to verify whether its fuel met set standards.
They extracted a sample from the diesel pump and tested it in the laboratory with the results revealing that the fuel was contaminated. The lawyer, Levison, said:
<blockquote>
We did not know that we sold contaminated diesel fuel. The company is small, it does not have any of the machines for testing fuel before purchasing it and in Zimbabwe, there are no retailers selling these testing machines.
</blockquote>
In May 2022, motorists alleged that a fuel service station at Lupane centre was allegedly selling petrol contaminated with water.
ZERA chief executive Addington Mazambane urged motorists to quickly report all cases of suspected fuel contamination so that the authorities can investigate and institute corrective measures.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fuel Service Station Fined US$300 Over Contaminated Diesel

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced new fuel prices effective 05 October 2023.
The price of diesel is now US$1.79 per litre, up from US$1.76, while the price of petrol has remained US$1.65.
ZERA added:
<blockquote>
The public and operators are advised that the blending ratio is at E20. Operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZERA Increases Price Of Diesel

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has warned illegal fuel dealers that they risk prosecution.
This comes as some unlicensed fuel dealers are advertising fuel on social media platforms promising to provide the product at low prices.
In a statement, ZERA said it is a serious offence for any unlicensed company to buy or sell fuel without the requisite license. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
It has come to the attention of the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) that there are some illegal fuel dealers offering fuel for sale to retailers and the public via social media.
Trade in petroleum products is a regulated activity that must be conducted in terms of relevant licenses and license conditions.
In terms of the Petroleum Act Cap 13:22, no person other than a licensed petroleum company shall procure or sell or produce petroleum products in the country.
Therefore, be advised that it is a serious offence for any unlicensed company to carry out an activity in the petroleum industry without the requisite license.
It is a breach of license conditions for a licensed petroleum retail company to buy petroleum products from a company that is not licensed to procure/import or wholesale petroleum products.
ZERA takes the issue of illegal fuel trading seriously as it endangers quality of product and safety of the public whilst creating an uneven playing field in the industry.
ZERA is working with relevant government agencies to curtail this malpractice.
The Authority would like to strongly warn that any unlicensed person found trading fuel will be prosecuted.
In addition, any licensed petroleum company found buying fuel from an unlicensed wholesaler will have their license cancelled.
Petroleum retail companies are advised to conduct due diligence by engaging ZERA to verify the authenticity of any company that may be offering fuel for sale in a suspicious manner.
The list of all licensed petroleum companies is available on the ZERA website www.zera.co.zw.
ZERA would like to urge the petroleum companies and the public to report anyone they suspect to be illegally doing business in the petroleum industry as soon as they get such information.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZERA Warns Unlicensed Fuel Dealers

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has warned members of the public against using some 48kg cylinders that are being brought into the country illegally and others whose brand identifications have been tampered with.
In a public notice, ZERA also warned LPG wholesalers who fill cylinders that do not belong to them, saying they will be penalised. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) wishes to advise the public that there are some 48kg cylinders that are being used unsafely and illegally for the distribution of LPG in the country.
This includes 48kg cylinders smuggled from neighboring countries and others whose brand identifications have been tampered with.
Such cylinders are unsafe as no one in the country bears responsibility for their maintenance and safety.
In terms of LPG regulations and for safety reasons, only brand owners of 48kg cylinders or their authorized agents, are entitled to fill and maintain them.
It is a license condition that LPG wholesalers own and refill their own branded 48kg cylinders or obtain permission from brand owners if they need to fill cylinders that do not belong to them.
ZERA will not hesitate to act against wholesalers violating this license condition.
Some of the cylinders shown below have no licensed owners in Zimbabwe and some were smuggled from South Africa and Botswana and are circulating in Zimbabwe without the owners’ consent and support.
<ul>
<li>Reatile Wasaa</li>
<li>Tswana</li>
<li>Easigas</li>
<li>Totalgaz</li>
<li>Mendon</li>
<li>Oryx</li>
<li>Eiendon</li>
<li>ORT</li>
<li>Kasa</li>
<li>Avedia</li>
<li>ELF Gas</li>
<li>BP</li>
</ul>
Owners of the above cylinders are not licensed to operate in Zimbabwe and as such, these cylinders have no maintenance support in the country.
For safety reasons, members of the public and LPG retailers are warned against using such cylinders because their owners cannot be held liable for accidents arising out of unauthorized use of these cylinders in the country.
Consumers are encouraged to approach licensed LPG wholesalers and retailers for good quality gas and safe cylinders.
ZERA is working with fellow regulators to eliminate the menace of smuggled cylinders in the market and urges LPG retailers and consumers to report any LPG wholesaler they find filling or selling smuggled 48kg cylinders.
</blockquote>
LP Gas can be dangerous if not handled properly. Some potential dangers associated with LP gas are fire and explosions, carbon monoxide poisoning, burns, and asphyxiation.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZERA Warns Against Using Unsafe 48kg LP Gas Cylinders

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has increased the price of Liquefied Petroleum (LP Gas) for March.
In a statement, ZERA said the price of LP Gas is now US$2.06 per kg and ZWL$1 861.35 per kg with immediate effect.
Previously, the price of LP Gas was US$1.77 per kg and ZWL$1 499.85. ZERA said:
<blockquote>
Operators are advised to display the prices at their retail outlets in a prominent place in clearly legible letters.
Please note that it is permissible to sell LPG at prices below the prescribed prices depending on one’s trading advantages.
</blockquote>
On 06 March, ZERA increased the price of petrol to US$1.62 or ZW$1 455.32 up from US$1.61 or ZW$1 341.07, while the price of diesel went down to US$1.67 from US$1.70.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZERA Hikes LP Gas Prices

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) says the registration of standby generators is done free of charge.
In a public notice, ZERA said all owners of standby generators or generating equipment with a capacity of 100kW and above, are required to be registered with ZERA and this is done at no cost. ZERA said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), following indications that the registration of standby generators attracts a fee of ZWL$100 000, hereby informs the public that such registration is at no cost.
In terms of the Electricity Act 2002 (Chapter 13:19) and Statutory Instrument 103 of 2008 all owners of standby generators or generating equipment with a capacity of 100kW and above, are required to be registered with ZERA.
This is to ensure public safety in the operation of the grid and in particular, prevent the danger posed to Electricity Supply Industry employees from the possibility of back-feeding of power into the grid from these generators during outages and maintenance.
Information on registration is obtainable from the Authority and the website <a href="https://www.zera.co.zw/">www.zera.co.zw.</a>
</blockquote>

ZERA Says Registration Of Standby Generators Is Free Of Charge

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced new fuel prices effective 02 February 2023.
The price of petrol is now US$1.61 per litre, up from US$1.59, while the price of diesel is now US$1.71, up from US$1.68 per litre. ZERA said in a statement:
<blockquote>
The public and operators are advised that the blending ratio for unleaded petrol is at E5. Operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations.
</blockquote>
The new fuel prices in Zimbabwe dollars are as follows:
<ul>
<li>Diesel is now ZWL$1 375.12, up from ZWL$1 315.09 per litre</li>
<li>Petrol is now ZWL$1 297.90, up from ZWL$1 241.01 per litre</li>
</ul>

Govt Increases Diesel And Petrol Prices

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced new fuel prices effective 11 January 2023.
The price of petrol is now US$1.53 per litre, up from US$1.50, while the price of diesel is now US$1.63, down from US$1.65 per litre. ZERA said in a statement:
<blockquote>
The public and operators are advised that the blending ratio for unleaded petrol is at E5. Operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations.
</blockquote>
The new fuel prices in Zimbabwe dollars are as follows:
<ul>
<li>Diesel is now ZWL$1.147.01, up from ZWL$1.119.82 per litre</li>
<li>Petrol is now ZWL$1080.01, up from ZWL$1016.49 per litre</li>
</ul>

ZERA Announces New Fuel Prices Effective 11 January

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced new fuel prices effective 21 December 2022.
The price of petrol is now US$1.48 per litre, down from US$1.50, while the price of diesel has remained at US$1.62 per litre. ZERA said in a statement:
<blockquote>
The public and operators are advised that the blending ratio for unleaded petrol is at 5%. Operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations.
</blockquote>
The new fuel prices in Zimbabwe dollars are as follows:
<ul>
<li>Diesel is now ZWL$1.094.04, up from ZWL$1.090.38 per litre</li>
<li>Petrol is now ZWL$1001.12, down from ZWL$1007.45 per litre</li>
</ul>

Price Of Petrol Falls

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced new fuel prices effective 08 December 2022.
The price of diesel has been reduced to US$1.66 from US$1.70 per litre. The price of petrol has, however, gone up to US$1.55 from US$1.54 which ZERA announced on 30 November 2022.
Notwithstanding the fact that fuel is hardly sold in Zimbabwe dollars, ZERA has announced new prices in the local currency.
<ul>
<li>Diesel is now ZWL$1.095.55, down from ZWL$1.113.03 per litre</li>
<li>Petrol is now ZWL$1023.77, up from ZWL$1008.57 per litre</li>
</ul>
ZERA said the blending ratio remains at E15. It added that operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations.

ZERA Reduces Price Of Diesel, Petrol Price Goes Up Marginally

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced the Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices for November 2022.
The prices are calculated according to the Petroleum (Liquified Petroleum Gas Pricing) Regulations 90 of 2021.
LP gas now costs US$1.78 per kg and ZWL$1 133.05 per kg. ZERA said in a public notice:
<blockquote>
Operators are advised to display the prices at their retail outlets at a prominent place in clearly legible letters.
Please note that it is permissible to sell LPG at prices below the prescribed prices depending on one’s trading advantages.
</blockquote>
In October 2022, the official LP gas prices as announced by ZERA were as follows: US$1.85 per kg and ZWL$1 161.88 per kg.

ZERA Announces Price Of Liquefied Petroleum Gas For November

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) on Wednesday announced new fuel prices effective 02 November 2022.
ZERA increased the price of petrol by US$0.3 cents to US$1.57 per litre from the previous price of US$1.54.
The price of diesel remains unchanged at US$1.73 per litre. ZERA said in a statement:
<blockquote>
The public and operators are advised that the blending ratio remains at E20. Operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations.
</blockquote>
Notwithstanding the fact that fuel is hardly sold in Zimbabwe dollars, ZERA has announced new prices in the local currency.
<ul>
<li>Diesel is now ZWL$1.091.75, up from ZWL$1.094.77 per litre</li>
<li>Petrol is now ZWL$992.45, up from ZWL$976.17 per litre</li>
</ul>

Price Of Petrol Goes Up By 3 Cents

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced new fuel prices effective 26 October 2022.
The price of diesel has remained at US$1.73 per litre while the price of petrol has gone down to US$1.54 from US$1.56 which was announced on 19 October 2022.
Notwithstanding the fact that fuel is hardly sold in Zimbabwe dollars, ZERA has announced new prices in the local currency.
<ul>
<li>Diesel is now ZWL$1.094.77, up from ZWL$1.088.80 per litre</li>
<li>Petrol is now ZWL$976.17, up from ZWL$981.67 per litre</li>
</ul>
ZERA said the blending ratio remains at E20. It added that operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations.

Price Of Petrol Goes Down

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced the prices of diesel and petrol (Blend-E20) with effect from 19 October 2022.
The price of diesel has remained at US$1.73 per litre while the price of petrol has gone up to US$1.56 up from US$1.55 which was announced a week ago.
Notwithstanding the fact that fuel is hardly sold in Zimbabwe dollars, ZERA has announced new prices in the local currency.
<ul>
<li>Diesel is now ZWL$1.088.80, up from ZWL$1.084.08 per litre</li>
<li>Petrol is now ZWL$981.67, up from ZWL$971.21 per litre</li>
</ul>
ERA said the blending ratio remains at E20. It added that operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations.

Price Of Petrol Goes Up, Again

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has announced the Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) prices for October.
The prices are calculated according to the Petroleum (Liquified Petroleum Gas Pricing) Regulations 90 of 2021.
With effect from 08 October 2022, LP gas costs US$1.85 per kg and ZWL$1 161.58 per kg. ZERA said in a public notice:
<blockquote>
Operators are advised to display the prices at their retail outlets at a prominent place in clearly legible letters.
Please note that it is permissible to sell LPG at prices below the prescribed prices depending on one’s trading advantages.
</blockquote>
In September 2022, the official LP gas prices as announced by ZERA were as follows: US$1.88 per kg and ZWL$1 078.09 per kg.

ZERA Reduces Price Of Liquefied Petroleum Gas

The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) has bemoaned the sub-economic tariffs it is charging consumers saying they do not match its demands which include importing power from regional players.
Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM), Hidroeléctrica de Cahora Bassa (HCB), Zambia Electricity Supply Corporation (ZESCO), and Eskom from South Africa are Zimbabwe’s major suppliers of electricity.
According to ZETDC acting managing director, Howard Choga, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulation Authority (ZERA) approved a tariff of 10.63 cents per kWh.
He said the figure is being greatly depreciated when converted from the RTGS payments to US dollars to as low as 7 cents per kWh.
ZETDC is importing electricity at an average cost of 10.9 cents kWh but selling locally at 7 cents per kWh.
The power utility also purchases power from independent power producers (IPPs) at a weighted average cost of 8.6 cents per kWh while ZETDC sold at 7 cents.
Giving insights into ZETDC operations at a recent workshop held by ZERA, Choga said ZETDC now needs to charge 15 cents per kWh to be able to operate optimally. He said:
<blockquote>
The weighted average cost of imports from EDM, HCB, ZESCO, and Eskom is 10.9 cents per kWh and the cost of internal purchases from Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) and Independent Power Producers have a weighted average cost of 8.6 cents per kWh but we are selling at 7 cents kWh.
Just buying at 10.96 cents and selling at 7 cents, without putting additional operational costs there, how do you think we survive, our cash flows are going south, I tell you we are surviving by not paying suppliers on time.
For many years we have been crying for a cost reflective tariff of 12.3 cents kWh but circumstances have changed especially due to borrowings that we have had to do because of the insufficiency of our cash flows, so the weighted cost of average capital has affected our tariff requirement to the extent that the tariff requirement in terms of cost reflectivity is now beyond 15 cents per kWh, that’s what we require to operate optimally.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.businessweekly.co.zw/sub-economic-tariffs-choking-zetdc/">Business Weekly</a>, Zimbabwe’s projected demand for energy is likely to reach 2 350 megawatts by 2025.

ZEDTC Pushes For Electricity Tariff Hike To 15 Cents Per kWh

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has reviewed the prices of diesel and petrol (Blend-E20) with effect from 08 September 2022.
The price of diesel has remained at US$1.74 per litre while the price of petrol has been reduced to US$1.53 from US$1.58.
Fuel prices in Zimbabwe dollars have, however, been raised, with the price of diesel now ZWL$1.014.01, up from ZWL$946.63 per litre while the price of petrol is now ZWL$892.35, up from ZWL$857.71.
ZERA said the blending ratio remains at E20. It added that operators may sell the petroleum products below the prescribed prices depending on their trading advantages and should display prices in a prominent place as provided for by the fuel pricing regulations.
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.31">ZWL</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.66">US$</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.83">Diesel 50 (ZWL/litre)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=96.59">Blend – E20 (ZWL/litre)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=96.82">Diesel 50 (US$/litre)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.23">Blend – E20 (US$/litre)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84">Maximum prices</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.79">1,014.01</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.88">892.35</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.81">1.74</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.78">1.53</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Price Of Petrol Falls As ZERA Reviews Fuel Prices

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Energy_Regulatory_Authority#:~:text=The%20Zimbabwe%20Energy%20Regulatory%20Authority,13%3A23%5D%20of%202011.&amp;text=ZERA%20is%20mentioned%20on%20p22,are%20the%20Second%20Case%20Study.">Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority</a> (ZERA) has announced fuel prices that are effective from 5 May 2021. Zera advised that the fuel prices effective Wednesday 5 May 2021 are as follows:
<table class="table table-bordered table-hover" id="table_1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.73"></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.39">
<table class="table table-bordered table-hover" id="table_1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.39">ZWL $</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Diesel 50</a>(ZWL/Litre)                 </td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.94"> 
Blend (E20)/Litre)             <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/"> 
</a></td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.94">
<table class="table table-bordered table-hover" id="table_1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.39">USD $</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
 
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Diesel 50 </a>(ZWL/Litre)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.97"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Blend</a>(E20)/Litre)</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.8"></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.84"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Maximum Pump Price</a>           </td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.69">111.43</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.73">112.62</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=97.76">1.32</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.98">1.33</td>
<td title="Character Accurarcy=99.02"></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
A month ago, ZERA reviewed fuel prices as follows:
<ul>
<li>Diesel 50 (ZWL/Litre) – $111.77</li>
<li>Blend (ZWL/Litre) – $112.96</li>
<li>Diesel 50 (USD/Litre) – $1.32</li>
<li>Blend (USD/Litre) – $1.34</li>
</ul>
Operators may sell at prices below the cap depending on their trading advantages. Stakeholders are advised that the petroleum price releases by ZERA can be verified on the official ZERA website, WhatsApp, Facebook or Twitter handle.

<ol>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/01/zimbabwes-fuel-consumption-falls/">Zimbabwe’s Fuel Consumption Falls</a></li>
<li class="entry-title">
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/04/05/south-africa-increases-fuel-prices/">South Africa Increases Fuel Prices</a>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/26/global-fuel-prices-expected-to-rise-after-massive-ship-blocked-suez-canal/">Global Fuel Prices Expected To Rise After Massive Ship Blocked Suez Canal</a>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/28/full-text-new-fuel-licensing-conditions-zera/">FULL TEXT: New Fuel Licensing Conditions -ZERA</a>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/04/05/new-fuel-prices-effective-5-april-2021/">New FUEL Prices Effective 5 April 2021</a>
</li>
<li class="entry-title">
<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/12/15/zesa-introduces-system-that-allows-customers-sell-excess-solar-power/">ZESA Introduces System That Allows Customers To ‘Sell’ Excess Solar Power</a>
</li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/04/15/riozim-to-commence-work-on-solar-power-plant/">RioZim To Commence Work On Solar Power Plant</a></li>
</ol>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZERA Announces Fuel Prices Effective 5 May

Zimbabwe’s fuel consumption fell significantly over the past year due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the country’s energy regulator said Friday.
According to the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), petrol consumption in the country declined by 12.53 per cent in the first three months of this year, compared to the same period last year.
In the first three months of this year, the country consumed 163 million litres of petrol, down from 212.9 million litres of petrol consumed during the same period last year.
In terms of diesel, consumption declined by 23.4 per cent from 119.7 million litres consumed in the three months up to March last year, to 104.7 million litres during the comparative period this year.
ZERA board chairperson David Madzikanda attributed the decline to lockdown measures implemented by the government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In late March 2020, the government banned intra-city, inter-city and cross-border movement of people, among a cocktail of measures put in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
Most businesses were also closed except for those in the essential services sector.
The restrictions were partially lifted in the final quarter of the year but in January and February this year, another total lockdown was imposed as the government battled to contain a second wave of the pandemic.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zimbabwes-fuel-consumption-declines/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewZimbabwe.com</a></h4>

Zimbabwe’s Fuel Consumption Falls

Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera) chief executive officer Mr Eddington Mazambani has said local power utility, ZESA, is in the process of applying for a new tariff.
Mazambani made the remarks at a breakfast meeting organised Friday morning in Harare but did not reveal the exact tariff being sought by Zesa adding the power utility will confirm soon.
Power consumers including industrialists and members of the public have already expressed concern over the plan to introduce a new tariff which comes when the economy is slowly reopening following a <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/01/breaking-ed-partially-lifts-lockdown/">prolonged COVID-19-induced lockdown.</a>
Many companies’ revenues decreased due to low production and that had a trickle-down effect on employees who are also ZESA consumers.
Recently, the Ministry of Local Government approved a rates hike proposal by local authorities attracting <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/04/03/full-text-residents-resist-ill-timed-rates-hike/">the wrath of the residents who said the hike was ill-timed.</a>
Another parastatal, the Zimbabwe National Water Authority <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/03/10/zinwa-shelves-plans-to-hike-tariffs-after-outcry/">(ZINWA) had to shelve plans to increase tariffs following a public outcry.</a>
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Zesa urgently requires a tariff review given that it is presently “incapacitated”.
Zera board chair Dr David Madzikanda told journalists during the same event in the capital that Zesa does not have vehicles and required personnel as it cannot afford to pay decent salaries to competent staff due to a low tariff.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>; <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zesa-seeks-new-tariff/">The Herald</a>

ZESA In Bid To Introduce A New Tariff

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has said a collective US$776.1 million is needed to fund electricity generation projects in Matebeleland South province.
The projects are being implemented by seven <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/04/02/12-independent-power-producers-to-be-licensed-in-2019-zera/">independent power producers (IPPs)</a> who have a combined installed capacity of 479.75MW.
Responding to written questions from Business Chronicle following his tour of IPP projects in Matabeleland South last week, Zera chief executive officer, Mr. Edington Mazambani said:
<blockquote>These visits to various IPPs across the country are part of continuous regulatory assessment of progress being made at various sites, their performance, compliance levels to codes and stakeholder engagements.</blockquote>
Mr. Mazambani added that funding for the projects varies due to a number of factors including each IPP’s technological needs, source of equipment, and fuel, among others.
The power to be generated will be added to the national grid.
ZERA has since 2010 licensed 91 IPPs countrywide with 67 of them at various stages of project preparation while eight IPPs’ licences were revoked after their projects took long to take off following issuance of licences.
Mazambani said five of the licensed IPPs were under construction while 19 were operational, producing a congregated output of 134.77MW.
Zimbabwe’s demand for electricity hovers around 2 200MW but because of antiquated equipment, generation by the country’s power utility, Zesa, is depressed at around half of the demand.
As part of efforts to boost electricity generation, Zesa through its subsidiary is also undertaking US$1.5 billion expansion works of Units 7 and 8 at Hwange Thermal Power Station.
Zimbabwe also hopes to generate more electricity from the 2400MW Batoka Gorge Hydro-Electric Scheme project whose output will be shared equally with Zambia.
At the peak of the Southern African country’s power issues between 2019 and 2020, some regions of the country would go for about 18 hours without electricity.
The situation is slowly getting back to normality.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/matabeleland-south-needs-us7761m-to-fund-ipp-projects/">Chronicle</a>

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