The ZESA nightmare: Way foward

By Priviledge Zviregei

ZESA holdings informed that there has been a system disturbance at Hwange Power Station that resulted in the loss of power generation on 13 March 2024 morning but it is working flat out to ensure restoration of service in the shortest possible time.

“ZESA Holdings would like to inform its valued customers that the national grid experienced a system disturbance this morning at 0938 hours, resulting in the loss of generation at the Hwange Power Station.

“This has resulted in increased load curtailment across the country.
Our engineers are working flat out to ensure restoration of service in the shortest possible time.

We sincerely apologise to our valued customers for any inconvenience caused.”said ZESA holdings.

The disturbance has affected most parts of the country with almost all industrial zones going without power for the last 24hours. This has resulted in most factories sending workers home and lossing production time thus meeting their targets. It is time to develop a lasting solution.

The public that spoke to this publication expressed concern over the detrimental effects of power cuts on the nation. They said these unexpected disruptions have a domino effect on various aspects of a country, from daily routines to critical infrastructure.

The tone of voice of some people turned grim when they discussed the impact on businesses and industries that heavily rely on electricity, causing financial losses and hampering economic growth. In some areas the power cut disrupted communication systems, resulting in delays and difficulty in concluding online transactions and offering of some services in the retail sector.

Some said it was disheartening to see the nation struggle due to something as basic as electricity, and it is crucial to address and find solutions to this issue to ensure progress and prosperity for all.

As Zimbabwe is facing an increasing demand for energy as its population and economy continue to grow,this rapid growth has put a strain on the country’s current energy sources, leading to power shortages,machinery breakdown and high electricity prices. In order to address this issue, the government of Zimbabwe should now explore the option of investing in green energy.

This move not only has the potential to solve the energy crisis, but also has numerous environmental and economic benefits. The term “green energy” refers to renewable energy sources that are clean, sustainable, and have a minimal impact on the environment. This includes solar, wind, hydro, and biomass energy.

These sources of energy have gained global recognition as viable alternatives to traditional fossil fuels, which have been the main source of energy for many years. Fossil fuels are also the cause of the current Elnino phenomenon which has caused a drought in all of Southern Africa in the 2023-2024 agricultural season.Investing in green energy would not only reduce the country’s dependence on non-renewable resources, but also reduce harmful emissions that contribute to climate change and air pollution.

One of the major benefits of investing in green energy for Zimbabwe is the potential for job creation as Zimbabwe is currently facing a very low employment rate.

Many studies have shown that investing in green energy can create more job opportunities compared to investments in traditional energy sources. This would not only improve the economy, but also provide new skills and opportunities for the local workforce.

For a country like Zimbabwe, which has high unemployment rates, this could be a significant solution. Furthermore, investing in green energy would also bring down the cost of electricity in the long run.

While the initial investment may seem high, renewable energy sources have a lower operating cost compared to traditional power plants. This means that over time, the cost of electricity for consumers could decrease, making it more affordable for businesses and households.

Additionally, green energy has a long lifespan and requires minimal maintenance, making it a cost-effective option in the long term. But the benefits of investing in green energy for Zimbabwe go beyond economic advantages.

By switching to renewable energy, the country would be taking a step towards a cleaner and healthier environment. Fossil fuels are the primary contributor to air pollution, which has been linked to numerous health problems, including respiratory diseases and cancer.

By reducing the use of these harmful resources, Zimbabwe can improve the health and well-being of its citizens. Moreover, investing in green energy aligns with global efforts to combat climate change.

As the effects of climate change become more evident, there is a growing urgency for countries to shift towards more sustainable energy sources. By investing in green energy, Zimbabwe would not only contribute to global efforts, but also set an example for other countries to follow.

Investing in green energy is a promising opportunity for Zimbabwe to address its energy crisis, boost its economy, and promote a cleaner environment. With the government’s support and adequate investment, the country can reap numerous benefits from transitioning to renewable energy sources.

This move would not only provide a sustainable solution for the current energy crisis, but also pave the way towards a greener and brighter future for Zimbabwe. So let’s join hands and take a step towards a more sustainable world.