GreenGrid plans to supply the first 150 megawatts from its Kariba solar park to Zimbabwe's electricity grid by the end of 2027, its director David Fussel told the Sunday Mail in an article published on Sunday, 18 October. This first phase is part of a programme of 600 MW to be deployed over several years.
The company is now preparing to mobilise on the site, Mr Fussel said. It says it has completed the technical studies and obtained the necessary authorisations. On its website, GreenGrid states that connection and electricity purchase agreements have been signed for the full 600 MW planned.
The first installations will be built on land, near the city of Kariba, the developer said. Feasibility studies led to favouring this configuration for the early stages. Floating panels on the lake could be added later, but they are not the chosen starting point.
The project aims to combine solar generation with hydroelectricity. According to GreenGrid, the panels are to feed the grid during the day so that more water can be kept in the reservoir. That water could then be used by the turbines during the morning and evening demand peaks.
The end-2027 deadline remains a forecast by the developer, linked in particular to equipment supply. The Sunday Mail reports that delivery times for large transformers now exceed twelve months.