In 2023, the state of electricity consumption in Zimbabwe shows that low-carbon energy sources account for a significant portion of the mix. Hydropower contributes to over half of the electricity, making up about 53% of the overall consumption. Additional low-carbon contributions are provided by biofuels, although their share is quite small at just over 1%. Meanwhile, fossil fuels, specifically coal, deliver a little more than a quarter of the electricity, marking an over-reliance on fossil sources that could be problematic due to their environmental impact. Additionally, electricity imports account for approximately 19% of consumption, indicating a noteworthy dependency on external sources. This current mix underlines an opportunity for Zimbabwe to further reduce its reliance on coal and imports by boosting domestic low-carbon electricity generation.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Ember and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe has witnessed a concerning decline in electricity consumption per capita, with the latest figures in 2023 at 625 kWh per person. This represents a substantial decrease from the 1987 record high of 1102 kWh per person, indicating a regression of almost 480 kWh. Low-carbon electricity generation hasn't escaped this decline, dropping from a historical peak of 568 kWh per person in 1980 to 343 kWh per person in the latest figures, a decrease of 225 kWh. This downturn is disappointing and suggests a need for urgency in growing sustainable, low-carbon electricity sources to cater to future demand and minimize environmental impact.
Suggestions
Looking forward, Zimbabwe can learn from regions that have successfully expanded their low-carbon electricity generation, particularly through solar and nuclear energy. France and Slovakia, for example, showcase the potential of nuclear power, with nuclear electricity accounting for 70% and 66% of their electricity mix, respectively. Meanwhile, regions like Nevada in the United States have shown how solar power can contribute significantly, covering 33% of electricity generation. By investing in both nuclear and solar energy, Zimbabwe can substantially increase its low-carbon electricity generation, reduce dependence on coal, and better secure its energy future in an eco-friendly manner.
History
Historically, Zimbabwe's experience with low-carbon electricity generation, largely dependent on hydropower, has fluctuated. There have been notable increases in hydropower generation, such as in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with a peak in 1990. However, periods of decline have offset these gains, with significant drops observed in 1991 and from 2016-2017. The recent period has seen slight improvements, exemplified by a boost in 2021, but the most recent data indicates another downturn in 2023. This pattern shows a missed opportunity for consistently capitalizing on low-carbon sources in the past, emphasizing the critical need for strategic, resilient, and diversified approaches to future electricity generation.
