From 4 to 7April, the majestic Victoria Falls played host to the highly anticipated 2025 Renewable Energy Conference, drawing together a diverse assembly of global energy stakeholders, policymakers, industry leaders, and innovators. Themed “Sustainable Energy Investments for a Better Future,” the conference served as a crucial platform for in-depth discussions, collaborations, and the unveiling of Zimbabwe’s ambitious new National Energy Efficiency Policy.
The conference, held at the Elephant Hills Hotel, commenced with opening remarks from the Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Matabeleland North Province, Honourable Cde Richard Moyo [MP], who emphasized Zimbabwe’s unwavering commitment to green energy development and the importance of regional cooperation in addressing climate change. He lauded the selection of Victoria Falls as the conference venue, recognizing its potential as a burgeoning hub for eco-tourism and sustainable investment.
A significant highlight of the conference was the official launch of Zimbabwe’s National Energy Efficiency Policy. Approved by Cabinet in October 2024, this strategic initiative aims to promote sustainable energy use across all sectors of the economy. The policy prioritizes key pillars such as sustainability, accessibility, affordability, gender equity, and employment creation, aligning with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 goals for an upper-middle-income economy. It emphasizes a data-driven and integrated approach to energy efficiency, seeking to reduce energy consumption, lower emissions, and stimulate the creation of green jobs, while also aligning Zimbabwe with global best practices in energy management.
The conference featured a dynamic program with expert panel discussions and presentations from key figures in the renewable energy landscape. Representing the private sector, Victor Utedzi, the CEO of Centragrid, a leading independent power producer, shared insights on the company’s pioneering large-scale solar projects, including the expansion of the Nyabira solar plant and new ventures in hydro and solar power for industrial clients like PPC, Afrochine, and Dinson Steel. His address focused on the crucial role of local investment and the potential for Zimbabwe to become a renewable energy hub in the region.
Dr. Gloria Magombo, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, provided a comprehensive overview of Zimbabwe’s renewable energy landscape and the government’s strategic direction in the sector. She highlighted the importance of creating an enabling regulatory environment to attract both local and international investment in renewable energy projects.
Other notable speakers included representatives from the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), who detailed efforts to streamline licensing processes and enforce quality standards in renewable energy deployment. The SADC Industrial Energy Efficiency Programme shared regional best practices and emphasized the need for industrial sectors to adopt energy-efficient technologies. Jinko Solar, a global leader in photovoltaic technology, showcased their latest innovations tailored for the African context, while the Rural Electrification Fund (REF) provided an update on their successful initiatives in powering rural communities through solar mini-grids and standalone systems.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reinforced the critical role of sustainable energy in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stressing the importance of inclusive financing models and capacity building. The conference also provided a platform for discussions on emerging areas such as carbon credit trading, electric mobility, and the integration of Artificial Intelligence in the energy transition.
The 2025 Renewable Energy Conference in Victoria Falls underscored the collaborative spirit and shared vision among stakeholders to advance renewable energy adoption and build a sustainable energy future for Zimbabwe and the wider region. The launch of the National Energy Efficiency Policy marks a significant step forward in this journey, signalling a strong commitment to energy reform and innovation.