Zimplats Launches US$54M Solar Plant to Expand Power Supply by 45MW In a significant move to secure its energy future, platinum gian...
Zimplats Launches US$54M Solar Plant to Expand Power Supply by 45MW
In a significant move to secure its energy future, platinum giant Zimplats has commenced construction on a new 45-megawatt (MW) solar power plant. The US$54 million project marks the second phase of the company's ambitious renewable energy strategy, aimed at boosting power reliability, cutting costs, and aligning with national and global climate goals.
The Phase 2A Project
The new 45MW solar plant, known as Phase 2A, represents a total investment of US$54 million. According to the company's quarterly report released on October 30, Zimplats had already spent US$12 million and committed a further US$36 million by the end of the third quarter. The project is scheduled for completion in the first half of the 2027 fiscal year.
This new construction builds upon the successful commissioning of the 35MW Phase 1A plant in August 2024. Once the new phase is complete, Zimplats, a subsidiary of South Africa’s Impala Platinum (Implats), will command a total installed solar capacity of 80MW, significantly enhancing its energy independence.
Strategic Drivers for Solar Investment
Zimplats stated that the expansion of solar power is crucial for securing a reliable and cost-effective electricity supply for its mining operations. The company has already seen financial benefits, noting in its report that second-quarter 2025 expenses were positively impacted by credits tied to the power generated from the first solar plant.
The solar initiative is a key part of Zimplats' commitment to climate action. The move aligns with Zimbabwe’s national climate policy, adopted in 2016, which promotes carbon neutrality. By reducing its reliance on the grid and cutting both direct and indirect emissions, Zimplats is actively supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 on climate action.
A Growing Trend in African Mining
The shift toward renewable energy is not limited to Zimbabwe. Across sub-Saharan Africa, mining companies are increasingly adopting solar power as a strategic tool to combat energy instability. By integrating solar plants, often paired with battery storage systems, mining operations can ensure a consistent power supply, reduce costly downtime, and lower their dependence on expensive diesel generators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Zimplats is building a 45-megawatt (MW) solar power plant, which is the second phase (Phase 2A) of its comprehensive solar energy program.
Upon completion of this new project in 2027, Zimplats' total solar power generation capacity will be 80 MW, combining the new 45MW plant with its existing 35MW plant.
Zimplats is investing in solar to cut operational costs, secure a reliable power supply for its mines independent of the national grid, and meet its commitments to reducing carbon emissions in line with national and global climate policies.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only.
The information is provided by Gossip Maestro using online sources and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose.
Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.