Story by Memory Chamisa
Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) has signed a historic power purchase agreement with a United Arab Emirates-based energy powerhouse SkyPower that will realise 300 megawatts of energy being churned on the national grid.
The agreement which was signed on the sidelines of the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi this Friday, is testament to the government’s commitment to sustainable energy development and global partnerships.
The collaboration between the government and SkyPower began in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt at COP 27 through a Memorandum of Understanding for the development of 500 Mega Watts of solar power.
“We met in Egypt Sharm El Sheikh and the President His Excellency Emmerson Mnangagwa highlighted the Government’s vision of setting up solar energy farms through partnerships that are beneficial to all parties with the local communities in mind and that was the deal broker. We are happy two years down the line to be fulfilling this and making it a reality. We look forward to coming to Zimbabwe and working with the teams responsible,” said SkyPower’s president and CEO, Mr Kerry Adler.
Minister of Energy and Power Development Honourable Edgar Moyo highlighted the significance of the collaboration in enabling Zimbabwe’s transition to renewable energy.
“The significance of today’s event cannot be overstated. As we align our efforts with global energy transitions, this project underlines our strategy to integrate renewable energy into our national energy mix significantly. It also reflects our resolve to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.
“Our journey with Skypower and the broader international community reflects a shared vision that transcends geographical boundaries. It is about building a sustainable future through innovative partnerships and mutual respect. The Government of Zimbabwe remains steadfast in its support for renewable energy projects. We are committed to creating an enabling environment that attracts further investments into renewable energy technologies.”
According to Honourable Moyo, the agreement with SkyPower will not only set a foundation for a renewable future but will empower communities with job creation in line with the National Development Strategy One.
