In a promising development for Zimbabwe’s energy sector, ZESA Holdings, the country’s power utility, has announced it’s exploring the potential of geothermal energy. Led by Engineer Masimba, a team is conducting studies to assess the viability of utilising hot springs as a source of clean and renewable power generation.
Geothermal energy harnesses the Earth’s internal heat to produce electricity. This clean and sustainable resource offers a multitude of benefits:
- Reduced Reliance on Fossil Fuels: By tapping into geothermal energy, ZESA can lessen dependence on traditional, finite fossil fuels like coal. This not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also shields Zimbabwe from price fluctuations associated with imported fuels.
- Sustainable Power Generation: Geothermal power plants boast a long lifespan and can generate electricity consistently, contributing to a more stable and reliable national grid.
- Environmentally Friendly: Unlike fossil fuels, geothermal energy production has minimal environmental impact, making it a responsible choice for a greener future.
Engineer Masimba’s studies will focus on identifying locations with the most geothermal potential. Hot springs across Zimbabwe are potential indicators of subsurface heat sources suitable for power generation.
While details on specific project timelines are yet to be announced, ZESA’s initiative marks a significant step towards diversifying Zimbabwe’s energy mix and fostering a more sustainable future. By harnessing this natural resource, the country can secure a cleaner, more reliable power supply to fuel economic growth and development.
Text by Natasha Munyukwa