Zimbabwe is accelerating its transition to renewable energy with an ambitious solar-focused strategy aimed at generating 2 640 megawatts (MW) of renewable energy capacity by 2030, as the country moves to strengthen energy security and reduce dependence on traditional power sources.
Under the National Renewable Energy Policy, more than 1 575 MW of the targeted renewable energy output is expected to come from solar power, positioning solar energy at the centre of the country’s long-term energy plans.
The strategy comes as Zimbabwe continues to face electricity shortages, aging infrastructure, and rising energy demand from households, mines, and industries.
Government has already rolled out several initiatives to support the transition, including the Presidential Rural Solarisation Scheme, a five-year programme set to begin in 2025.
The scheme aims to install 1-kilowatt solar systems in more than one million rural households across the country, significantly expanding electricity access in underserved communitie
Authorities say the initiative is expected to improve rural livelihoods by powering homes, schools, clinics, and small businesses while reducing reliance on firewood and other traditional energy sources.
Alongside rural electrification, large companies are increasingly investing in industrial-scale solar projects to reduce dependence on the national grid and improve production efficiency.
Cable manufacturer Cafca has installed a 1.2 MW solar plant, while mining giant Zimplats is developing a massive 185 MW solar project to meet its operational energy requirements.
Gold producer Caledonia Mining has also commissioned a 12.2 MW solar facility as part of efforts to secure stable electricity supplies.
Industry experts say the growing shift toward self-generated solar power reflects increasing confidence in renewable energy solutions and rising concerns over grid reliability.
Government is also seeking to boost local manufacturing capacity by facilitating the establishment of solar panel manufacturing plants in Zimbabwe.
Officials believe local production will reduce import costs, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth within the renewable energy sector.
Other support programmes include the National Solar Water Heating initiative launched in 2015 and the Solar for Health programme, which is equipping health institutions with solar systems to improve service delivery in clinics and hospitals.
To attract more investment, the government has opened the sector to independent power producers (IPPs) and introduced streamlined licensing procedures for rooftop solar systems and solar farms.
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has also dismissed reports suggesting that solar users would be taxed, reassuring households and businesses that authorities remain committed to encouraging green energy adoption.
In addition, the National Energy Efficiency Policy mandates minimum energy performance standards for appliances to help reduce electricity demand and improve efficiency nationwide.
Energy analysts say Zimbabwe’s aggressive renewable energy drive could help the country reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 33 percent by 2030 while improving electricity access and strengthening industrial productivity.
With solar energy emerging as a cornerstone of the country’s energy future, Zimbabwe is positioning itself to become one of the region’s leading adopters of renewable power technologies.