Zimbabwe's current state of electricity consumption in 2023 is notably characterized by its reliance on low-carbon and fossil energy sources. More than half of Zimbabwe's electricity, specifically around 55%, is generated from low-carbon sources, with hydropower alone contributing over 53%. Fossil energy, from coal, makes up approximately 26% of the electricity supply. Meanwhile, net imports of electricity comprise around 19%, and biofuels add just over 1% to the mix. The significant share of low-carbon electricity is a promising step toward reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which contribute to climate change and air pollution. However, there is still room for improvement in increasing the share of sustainable energy to ensure long-term environmental benefits.

Is Electricity Growing in Zimbabwe?

Despite the global push towards increased electrification and clean energy, electricity consumption in Zimbabwe has experienced a decline. The most recent data from 2023 shows that electricity consumption is at 625 kWh per person, down from the historic high of 1102 kWh per person recorded in 1987. This decrease of 478 kWh signals a concerning trend. Additionally, low-carbon electricity generation has also fallen from a peak of 568 kWh per person in 1980 to 343 kWh currently. This reduction of 225 kWh indicates that, despite the presence of significant hydropower generation, the growth of clean energy hasn't kept pace with global standards, potentially hindering Zimbabwe's progress towards energy sustainability and economic development.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Zimbabwe can learn from successful regions across the globe that have optimized solar, wind, and nuclear power. For instance, France and Slovakia have achieved around 67% nuclear energy in their electricity mix, showcasing a robust nuclear strategy. Likewise, regions like Iowa and Denmark generate over 55% of their electricity from wind. Zimbabwe should consider investing in solar energy as seen in Nevada, which obtains 35% of its electricity through solar power. By diversifying energy portfolios and embracing advancements in nuclear and solar technologies, Zimbabwe can significantly increase its clean energy capacity, reducing dependence on imports and fossil fuels while securing a sustainable energy future.

History

The history of low-carbon electricity in Zimbabwe reveals a pattern of fluctuations, primarily centered around hydropower, which has seen both growth and setbacks over the decades. In the early 1980s, there were minor reductions in hydroelectricity output, followed by notable variations in the early 1990s, where significant declines were recorded. The latter part of the decade experienced positive momentum as hydroelectricity saw a modest increase. The early 2000s marked another era of growth, with fluctuations continuing thereafter. Notably, in 2021, Zimbabwe witnessed a major increase in hydropower generation, adding 2.1 TWh to its capacity. However, such growth was not sustained into 2023, as there was again a slight decline. This historical trend underscores the necessity for Zimbabwe to stabilize and expand its low-carbon energy sources, reinforcing its commitment toward a cleaner energy future.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade