THE Harare City Council is planning to establish a 50MW solar plant at its Crowborough farm at a cost of US$50 million, a development expected to help generate power for the city’s water and sewer treatment plants.
This was revealed in the council’s 2025 budget proposals presented early this week by finance and development committee chair councillor Costa Mande. “One of the signature projects for the 2025 financial year is the Harare 50 megawatt solar plant.
The project involves the establishment of the 50 megawatt solar plant at the Council-owned farm in Crowborough at a total cost of USD50 million. In 2025, the USD5 million injection has been proposed.
“The solar plant will generate electricity to power the city’s water and sewer treatment plants, with any excess energy being supplied to the national grid under net metering arrangements.
This project is very important for the city because it will reduce operational costs significantly and also reduce our dependence on the national grid,” said Mande.
He said the project is poised to assist the Harare City Council in reducing the carbon footprint and ensuring environmental sustainability.
“Sustainability is the cornerstone of modern urban planning. The solar farm project aligns with sustainable development goals by promoting the use of renewable resources.
“It ensures that Harare’s growth is environmentally responsible and that natural resources are preserved for future generations. Building a 50-megawatt solar energy farm is not just about generating electricity; it is about creating a sustainable, economically viable, and environmentally friendly future for Harare.
“The project promises significant cost savings, enhanced energy security, environmental benefits, and economic growth,” said Mande. — New Ziana