The Rural Electrification Fund (REF), a government agency dedicated to expanding electricity access in Zimbabwean villages, is making significant strides with its renewable energy initiatives. Their focus on mini-grid solar projects aims to not only provide power to remote areas but also reduce strain on the national grid.
The REF’s strategy aligns perfectly with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), emphasizing reliable and affordable energy access for all by 2025. This focus on energy security supports the government’s vision for growth in critical sectors like mining, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing.
The REF’s solar project takes a two-pronged approach, targeting both public institutions and entire communities. By providing clean and sustainable energy to essential facilities such as schools, clinics, government offices, and community infrastructure, the REF contributes to rural development while simultaneously alleviating pressure on the national grid.
Johannes Nyamayedenga, REF’s Public Relations and Marketing Executive, reports remarkable progress. “This year alone, we’ve completed 23 out of the planned 25 mini-grid solar projects at the institutional level,” he says. These completed projects power schools, clinics, and government offices, ensuring access to electricity for crucial services in rural areas.
The mini-grid solar projects range from 5 to 220 kilowatts, strategically designed to meet the energy needs of various sized institutions. Importantly, these self-contained systems lessen the burden on the national grid, promoting energy independence for rural communities.
The REF’s vision extends beyond institutions. They are also targeting 10 community projects across the country, with three already completed. A notable example is the Bemba project in Tsholotsho, a 60kW system supplying electricity to nearly 45 households alongside a clinic, school, agricultural project, and business centre.
Other successful community projects include the 220kW solar photovoltaic system installed at the Hakwata business centre in Chipinge District, complete with solar-powered streetlights. Beitbridge also benefits from the 120kW Chitulipasi Community mini-grid.
To ensure the project’s sustainability, the REF emphasizes community involvement. Mr. Nyamayedenga highlights the “massive buy-in from communities to safeguard the infrastructure,” fostering a sense of ownership and protection against vandalism.
The REF isn’t stopping at solar. They have additional projects in the pipeline, including solar home systems and a biogas digester program. This program, particularly popular with mission boarding schools, aims to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources like firewood by generating biogas from organic waste.
Zimbabwe’s existing energy policies, including the National Renewable Energy Policy and Biofuels Policy, create a supportive environment for the REF’s initiatives. These policies are already attracting investments into the renewable energy sector, paving the way for a more sustainable energy future for rural Zimbabwe.
The Rural Electrification Fund’s commitment to solar power and community engagement is making a significant impact on rural Zimbabwe. By providing clean energy access and fostering local participation, the REF is not only illuminating homes and institutions but also empowering communities and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Text by Natasha Munyukwa