Zimbabwe is taking a significant step towards renewable energy by planning a 250-megawatt floating solar plant on Lake Kariba — the world’s largest man-made lake. The project, financed with $250 million from the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), aims to address the country’s power shortages and boost its renewable energy capacity.
Lake Kariba: A Power Generation Hub
Lake Kariba — located on the Zambezi River and shared by Zimbabwe and Zambia — is a critical energy resource for both countries. Built between 1955 and 1959, it stretches over 5,580 square kilometers and holds one of the largest reservoirs of water in the world.
The Kariba Dam — constructed to harness the lake's immense potential — has been a primary source of hydroelectric power for decades. It supports power generation for Zimbabwe and Zambia, with a combined capacity of about 1,830 megawatts under optimal conditions.
Over the years, Zimbabwe has made several attempts to maximize Lake Kariba’s power generation potential. The Kariba South Power Station underwent an expansion in 2018, increasing its capacity by 300 megawatts. However, the recurring droughts have limited its effectiveness.
Currently, the dam produces just 125 megawatts for Zimbabwe — around 11% of its designed capacity. This has created severe electricity shortages, disrupting industries and households. The floating solar plant offers a sustainable solution by diversifying power generation while leveraging the lake's infrastructure.
Addressing Zimbabwe’s Energy Crisis
The Intensive Energy User Group (IEUG) — a coalition of mining companies — is spearheading the floating solar initiative. Members include Mimosa and a former local unit of Rio Tinto. The group plans to expand the solar plant’s capacity to 1 gigawatt in the future. Edward Cross, chairman of the IEUG, said the funding received overwhelming interest, thus underscoring the project's appeal.
Afreximbank is playing a pivotal role in the project's success. In a statement, the bank highlighted its support for the Green Hybrid Power initiative, which aims to develop a 1,000-megawatt floating solar photovoltaic facility on the lake. At the Africa Investment Forum 2024, Afreximbank showcased the initiative as a model for sustainable development. The forum emphasized the role of reliable energy in fostering trade and supporting industrial growth.
The initial phase — targeting 250 megawatts — is backed by Afreximbank’s Project Preparation Facility. Signed in April 2024, this agreement drives feasibility studies and engineering designs. These efforts will ensure that the project is implemented within 18 months.
The floating solar plant will complement Kariba Dam’s hydropower by integrating renewable energy sources. This hybrid system will provide stable and reliable power for Zimbabwe’s industries, mining operations, and local communities.
Benefits of Floating Solar Plants on Lake Kariba
Floating solar plants are an innovative solution for energy generation. By utilizing the lake’s vast water surface, the plant will minimize land use and reduce water evaporation. These floating panels also enhance efficiency by cooling the solar modules, thus improving their performance in Zimbabwe’s hot climate.
The floating solar plant will help preserve Lake Kariba’s water levels by reducing evaporation. This is particularly important as droughts and climate change continue to impact the region. By integrating solar power with hydropower, Zimbabwe will diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, thereby aligning with global trends toward sustainable energy.
The floating solar project represents a new chapter in harnessing the lake’s resources. Unlike traditional hydroelectric power, solar energy generation is unaffected by water shortages. The integration of these two systems ensures a year-round power supply, reducing Zimbabwe’s vulnerability to climate-related disruptions.
The floating solar plant on Lake Kariba marks a transformative shift in Zimbabwe's energy landscape, integrating solar power with existing hydropower infrastructure to ensure stable electricity for industries under a 20-year Power Purchase Agreement. Backed by $250 million in funding and international support, the project aims to address the country’s power crisis while fostering economic growth and attracting further investment.