A new renewable energy support program was launched in Zimbabwe. The GET.invest and GET.transform initiatives opened a dedicated country window. The announcement was made during the EU-Zimbabwe Economic Forum held in Harare.
The window is funded by the European Union and the government of Germany. It is aimed at helping Zimbabwe increase private investment in renewable energy. The support includes technical help, financial guidance, and assistance with policy reform.
GET.invest will offer its EDGE Finance tool and advisory services. GET.transform will focus on governance and regulatory frameworks. The program is designed to help local and international investors enter the Zimbabwean clean energy market.
In 2022, 67% of Zimbabwe’s electricity came from hydropower, according to the International Energy Agency. Droughts have lowered hydropower output. This has increased the need for alternative energy sources. Solar power is now being promoted as a more reliable option.
Isaiah Nyakusendwa, President of the Renewable Energy Association of Zimbabwe, said “the timing of the support was helpful. “He pointed to the role of technical advice in helping the government attract private companies.
The Zimbabwe country window follows similar launches in Nigeria and other African nations. Each one is adapted to the country’s energy needs and investment challenges.
In addition to GET.invest, there are other solar and wind projects being developed in Zimbabwe. One such initiative is a 6 MW solar mini-grid in Mashonaland West. It is backed by a local agro-processing firm and aims to power farming and irrigation systems. The system uses lithium-iron-phosphate battery storage for evening and night use.
Another project in Gwanda district involves small-scale solar kiosks with 50 kW capacity each. These are being installed at rural health clinics. They are supported by a partnership between the Ministry of Health and a non-profit based in Germany.
