AfrElec: Skypower Global in talks with Zimbabwe to build 500-MW solar park

Zimbabwe’s cabinet has approved a framework agreement between the government and Toronto-headquartered solar energy developer, Skypower Global (Skypower), state-owned daily The Herald reports.

The agreement involves a proposed phased building of a 500-MW solar park in the southern African nation, according to Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa.

The cabinet had considered and approved the framework agreement between Zimbabwe and Skypower Global of the United Arab Emirates as presented by Zhemu Soda, Minister of Energy and Power Development, she said, adding: "In support of the initiative to promote investments, government seeks to conclude a framework with Skypower Global."

Zimbabwe has substantial solar energy potential which is largely untapped. The largest investment so far is by local company Solgas Energy, which started feeding 5 MW into the national grid in March. When complete, the facility in western Zimbabwe will produce 50 MW. 

A number of companies such as London- and New York-listed Caledonia Mining Corporation, majority shareholder in the major local gold mine Blanket, and cement maker Pretoria Portland Cement are planning to develop theirs.  

The country needs more capacity as it generates about 1,200 MW, yet demand is around 1,800 MW. It fills the gap through imports from Mozambique, South Africa and Zambia.

Skypower is one of the world’s largest and most successful independent power producers that developed, financed, built, owns and operates solar stations across the globe totalling 25,000 MW. Some of these stations are in bilateral agreements and contract awards to be built in the Middle East, Africa, and South East and Central Asia over the coming years, The Herald notes.

It has over 30 power purchase agreements (PPAs) representing billions of dollars worth of long-term renewable energy sales to leading utilities and governments around the world.