Sabi Star Mine, a prominent lithium mining operation in Buhera, Zimbabwe, is nearing completion of its very own 15-megawatt (MW) thermal power plant. This US$5 million investment marks a significant step towards energy independence for the mine and potentially benefits the surrounding community.
Previously reliant on expensive and resource-intensive diesel generators, Sabi Star Mine is adopting a more sustainable and cost-efficient approach to power its operations. The new thermal power plant, expected to be fully operational by the second half of 2024, will generate 15 MW of electricity, exceeding the mine’s own requirements (12 MW).
Engineer Oswald Makonese, Sabi Star Mine Manager, highlights the project’s potential to contribute to the local community. “We plan to feed the remaining 3 MW into the national grid,” he explains. This will not only benefit nearby communities but also contribute to the national grid, a long-standing challenge in Zimbabwe.
Concerns regarding potential environmental impact from the thermal plant’s emissions have been addressed. The plant incorporates flue gas conditioning equipment, including a 60-meter chimney and a Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) system. This advanced system is designed to minimise harmful emissions and comply with Zimbabwe’s environmental regulations.
Sabi Star Mine’s initiative reflects a broader trend within Zimbabwe’s mining sector. The country’s historical reliance on limited hydropower and aging coal-fired power plants has resulted in a national power deficit. This has forced many mines to import electricity or invest in independent generation solutions.
The new power plant is expected to significantly enhance Sabi Star Mine’s productivity. “At full capacity, the mine projects a production of 300,000 tonnes of lithium concentrate annually, generating over US$600 million,” Eng. Makonese reports. The project also boasts positive economic benefits for the Buhera region, having created hundreds of employment opportunities during construction and promising a continued economic boost through operation.
Sabi Star Mine’s investment in its own power generation plant signifies a multi-faceted win. The project ensures energy security for the mine’s operations, contributes to the national grid, and fosters economic growth in the Buhera community.
Text: Natasha Munyukwa