To deliver on its purpose of sustainable development, PPC Zimbabwe has turned the first sod on its US$40-million solar project, marking the commencement of construction of two PV solar plants in Bulawayo and Gwanda.
The 30 MW solar power project is being led by PPC Zimbabwe and a consortium comprising ATC and Sinohydro. This follows the signature of the first corporate power purchase agreement in Zimbabwe between PPC Zimbabwe and CentraWest, the project company.
The total contracted capacity is 30 MWac and to ensure a reliable and quality supply of electricity to PPC Zimbabwe operations, a 9 MW/18 MWh battery energy storage system will be installed at the Gwanda site. This is one of the largest grid-scale electricity storage systems to be built in Africa.
The project will also create employment during the construction phase and permanent staff will be employed for the maintenance of the plants after completion. An estimated 500 jobs will be created.
“We continuously strive to deliver on our purpose of sustainable development and this investment is testament to our commitment to boost energy supply through innovative initiatives,” the company says.
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