Zimbabwe News Update
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Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business HubZimplats has commenced implementation of the Phase 2A 45MW solar project as part of its ongoing drive towards sustainable energy and operational efficiency, following the successful commissioning of the Phase 1A 35MW solar plant in August 2024.In a statement accompanying its latest quarterly update for the period ended 30 September, the platinum producer said the new phase represents a major milestone in its multi-phased solar rollout plan, which seeks to reduce reliance on grid power and strengthen energy security across its operations.“Following the successful commissioning of the Phase 1A 35MW solar plant in August 2024, the company commenced implementation of the Phase 2A 45MW solar plant in the quarter,” said Zimplats.The US$54 million project, expected to be completed in the first half of the 2027 financial year, will increase the company’s total solar power generation capacity to 80MW.“A total of US$12 million had been spent and a further US$36 million committed as of 30 September 2025,” the company noted.The renewable energy investment forms part of Zimplats’ wider strategy to align with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 and global decarbonisation efforts by integrating clean energy solutions into its operations.Meanwhile, the Selous Metallurgical Complex Concentrator tailings storage facility (TSF) extension project continued to progress well.
The expanded facility, which covers more than 30 hectares, will sustain concentrator operations through to the 2049 financial year.“As of 30 September 2025, US$4 million had been spent against a total project budget of US$18 million,” the company reported.Significant progress was also recorded on the Selous Metallurgical Complex Base Metal Refinery refurbishment project — a key component of Zimplats’ beneficiation drive.“At quarter-end, a total of US$35 million had been spent on the Selous Metallurgical Complex Base Metal Refinery refurbishment project, against an overall budget of US$190 million,” the firm said.The Mupani Mine development, which replaces the depleted Rukodzi and Ngwarati mines, remains on schedule.
Once complete, the mine will deliver full-scale production of 3.6 million tonnes per annum in the 2029 financial year.“As of 30 September 2025, a cumulative total of US$352 million had been spent on this project against a total project budget of US$386 million,” the company said.Additionally, work on the smelter expansion and SO₂ abatement plant project continued during the quarter, demonstrating Zimplats’ commitment to improving environmental performance and increasing processing capacity.“US$461 million had been spent as of 30 September 2025 out of a total project budget of US$544 million,” the company added.These strategic investments underscore Zimplats’ long-term commitment to operational excellence, sustainability, and local value addition, while contributing significantly to Zimbabwe’s industrialisation and green energy transition.Leave a ReplyCancel reply
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