Zimplats Commissions First Phase of 185 MW Solar Plant

Zimbabwe Platinum Mines (Zimplats) has officially commissioned its expanded 38 MW smelter and the first 35 MW phase of its planned 185 MW solar plant at the Selous Metallurgical Complex, part of its broader Ngezi operations. The commissioning ceremony, held at the Selous Metallurgical Complex in Ngezi, was presided over by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who described the developments as “a remarkable milestone” in Zimbabwe’s industrialisation and clean energy agenda.

The 35 MW solar plant, which cost US$37 million, will supply approximately 8% of Zimplats’ electricity needs. It is the first phase of a planned 185 MW portfolio designed to enhance the company’s energy independence and environmental performance.

“This is a clear indication that embracing green technologies is both an environmental imperative and also a smart economic decision. The subsequent phases will increase Zimplats' solar power capacity to 185 MW, enhancing energy security while reducing its carbon footprint,” Mnangagwa stated.