By Ebi Kesiena
Zimbabwe is set to endure prolonged power outages as the nation’s power utility, ZESA, announced significant load-shedding measures following a technical failure at the Hwange thermal power station.
In a statement on Sunday, the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) revealed that Unit 8 of the Hwange Thermal Power Station, which contributes 300 MW to the national grid, experienced a technical fault, resulting in a substantial decrease in electricity generation.
“ZESA Holdings informs its valued customers that the national power grid is currently facing reduced electricity generation due to a technical issue at Unit 8 of the Hwange Thermal Power Station,” the statement read.
This reduction in output has forced ZESA to implement more extensive load-shedding schedules in an effort to balance the supply and demand of electricity across the country.
Efforts are underway to resolve the issue, with technical teams working to restore full capacity and mitigate the impact on consumers.
Earlier, ZESA’s power generation arm, the Zimbabwe Power Company, reported that the Hwange plant was producing only 635 MW, a sharp decline from its previous output of over 1,000 MW.
This latest setback exacerbates ongoing challenges in Zimbabwe’s electricity sector, which has struggled with outdated infrastructure, inadequate investment, and drought-related low water levels at hydroelectric facilities.
The extended power cuts are expected to have widespread repercussions, affecting businesses and households alike, and disrupting daily life across Zimbabwe.
