Mishma Chakanyuka, Staff Writer 
THE European Union (EU) has emphasised the need for Zimbabwe to diversify its energy mix with various renewable sources in response to the global impacts of climate change and the severe drought.
This diversification would provide a backup supply, enhancing the nation’s resilience to climate shocks.
“Our engagement to support the rehabilitation of the Kariba Dam is an obvious and concrete example of Global Gateway and its 150-billion Euro Africa-Europe Investment Package, both in content and in its approach to secure access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy,” said Henrik Hololei, European Commission Hors Classe Adviser.
Zera chief executive officer, Edington Mazambani
Zimbabwe has been grappling with electricity shortages, relying on imports to bridge the gap. This is attributed to factors such as water scarcity, outdated infrastructure, low tariffs, inadequate maintenance, foreign currency constraints, and legacy debt.
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) is actively developing a regulatory framework to promote the use of renewable energy sources, tapping into the country’s substantial untapped potential in this area.
ZERA’s chief executive officer, Edington Mazambani, recently proposed a diversified energy mix as a solution to Zimbabwe’s power challenges.
He suggested a mix where “solar power contributes 30 percent, utilising abundant sunlight. Hydropower contributes 25 percent by leveraging existing hydroelectric power plants and new projects. Wind power accounts for 15 percent.”
He further outlined the potential contributions of other sources.
“Coal power has the potential to contribute 10 percent, thus using coal as a transitional fuel while increasing renewable energy sources. Gas power will contribute 5 percent. Exploring geothermal energy potential can contribute 5 percent. Also, utilising biomass resources for power generation will contribute 5 percent.”
Mazambani emphasised that this energy mix can help reduce dependence on imported power, increase renewable energy sources, diversify the energy supply, improve energy security, mitigate climate change, create jobs, and stimulate economic
