Zimplats targets $54 million Zimbabwe solar project completion by June 2027

Zimplats, Zimbabwe’s largest platinum producer, is targeting completion of its $54 million Phase 2A solar power project by June 2027, as the mining giant accelerates its transition toward cleaner and more reliable energy.

The project will add 45 megawatts (MW) of renewable power capacity, increasing the company’s total installed solar generation to 80MW and strengthening energy security across its operations.

Zimplats’ solar expansion push
The expansion forms part of Zimplats’ broader plan to develop a 185MW solar portfolio before 2030, positioning it among the largest renewable energy investors in Zimbabwe’s mining sector.

Managing Director Stanley Segula said construction remains on track, with the company confident of meeting its first-half 2027 completion target. “We are aiming to complete the 45MW by this time next year,” Segula said on the sidelines of the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe Annual Conference.

Funding for the $54 million project has already been secured, while feasibility studies are underway for the next phase of the company’s renewable energy rollout. Once fully implemented, the remaining 105MW of planned capacity will lift total solar generation to 185MW, significantly reducing reliance on Zimbabwe’s national electricity grid.

Long-term investment strategy
The solar project is part of Zimplats’ wider capital investment program focused on expanding mining capacity, increasing beneficiation, and improving operational sustainability.

The company has invested approximately $2.6 billion in Zimbabwe since 2001, including about $1.8 billion over the past five years on major projects such as mine development, smelter upgrades, and renewable energy infrastructure.

Speaking on behalf of Chief Executive Officer Alex Mhembere, Segula said the strategy is aimed at building an integrated and globally competitive platinum business rather than simply boosting output.

Previous investment phases included the development of Bimha Mine and concentrator expansion between 2006 and 2010, reconstruction of the mine between 2011 and 2015, infrastructure upgrades between 2016 and 2020, and major expansion projects from 2021 to 2026, including smelter upgrades and the commissioning of a 35MW solar plant.

Energy reliability drives investment
Reliable electricity remains one of the biggest challenges for Zimbabwe’s mining sector, prompting companies to invest in captive renewable energy to reduce exposure to grid instability and rising power costs.

For Zimplats, expanding solar generation is expected to lower operating costs over time, reduce carbon emissions, improve production reliability, and strengthen its environmental, social and governance profile. The investment also aligns with Zimbabwe’s ambition to build a $12 billion mining industry while increasing renewable energy adoption across heavy industries.

Construction of the 45MW Phase 2A project will continue over the next year, with completion targeted for the first half of 2027. Following commissioning, Zimplats plans to begin developing the remaining 105MW required to reach its long-term 185MW renewable energy target, further reducing reliance on grid power while supporting sustainable platinum production.