In 2023, Zimbabwe's electricity consumption reflects a mix between clean and fossil-based energy sources. Over half of the electricity generation is derived from low-carbon sources, with hydropower accounting for more than 53%. Very close to negligible levels are generated from biofuels, contributing just over 1% to the low-carbon category. The remaining electricity comes from fossil fuels, specifically coal, which makes up about a quarter of total consumption. Additionally, almost a fifth of Zimbabwe's electricity is sourced from net imports, potentially indicating a reliance on external energy supplies to meet its electricity needs. This current mix highlights an ongoing dependence on both sustainable and fossil energy sources, with a significant share still attributed to coal, known for its environmental impacts such as air pollution and contributing to climate change.
Is Electricity Growing in Zimbabwe?
The trajectory of electricity growth in Zimbabwe presents concerns rather than optimism. The latest data from 2023 shows that electricity consumption per person stands at 625 kWh, a significant drop from the 1987 peak of 1102 kWh/person. In terms of low-carbon electricity, the 2023 generation per capita is 343 kWh, a decrease since the 1980 peak of 568 kWh/person. This downward shift of 225 kWh/person in low-carbon electricity signifies setbacks in advancing towards a cleaner energy future. The decline is deeply worrying, as it potentially hampers economic growth and electrification necessary for modernization and sustainability.
Suggestions
To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Zimbabwe can learn from regions that utilize solar and nuclear energy effectively. Countries like France and states like New Hampshire have achieved impressive nuclear electricity shares of around 68% and 56%, respectively, showcasing the viability and long-term benefits of nuclear technology. Similarly, solar energy has made strides in several regions, including Lebanon, where it contributes 31% of electricity, and Chile with 22%. Zimbabwe could draw inspiration from these examples by investing in both nuclear facilities and solar power plants, thereby securing a stable and clean electricity supply for its future needs.
History
In examining the history of low-carbon electricity in Zimbabwe, hydropower has experienced fluctuating trends. Notable periods of decline occurred in the early 1980s, with a reduction in hydropower generation by about 0.5 TWh in 1982, and similar declines were seen in 1991 and 1993. Conversely, growth periods in the 1990s and 2000s brought increases, such as a 1 TWh rise in 1990 and a promising 1.5 TWh boost in 2003. Recent years have also seen variability, with a significant increase of 2.1 TWh in 2021 followed by another small decline in 2023. The historical oscillations in hydropower generation underscore the need for Zimbabwe to diversify its low-carbon energy mix by adopting more consistent and robust solutions like solar and nuclear energy, ensuring sustainable growth and energy security.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.