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From Power Cuts to Solar Grids: The Inside Story of Zimbabwe’s Renewable Energy Boom
By Anesu Mirisawu • January 17, 2026
The Energy Shift. As persistent power shortages continue to afflict much of Africa, Zimbabwe included, solar energy has emerged as a critical lifeline for households and businesses alike. The rapid uptake of solar solutions has reshaped daily commercial operations, offering a more reliable and cost-effective source of power amid ongoing electricity supply constraints.
| Demand for solar installations has surged, bringing both opportunities and challenges. |
The Industry Perspective. Against this backdrop, demand has surged, fundamentally changing how we do business. To understand this boom, we sat down with Crispen Rateiwa, a solar energy specialist at Sungrip Solar Energy. We discussed the growing appetite for solar power, the practical hurdles faced during installations, and what the future holds for renewable energy in the country.
Transforming the Local Economy
When asked how the growing demand for solar is changing operations, Rateiwa noted that it is the difference between failure and survival for many enterprises.
"A solar system can significantly impact business operations, especially in areas with unreliable grid power or erratic load shedding," he explained. "By installing a solar system to power a freezer for ice block production, incubators, or service stations, a business cuts costs and increases profitability."
The Growth Point Economy
For butcheries, consistent solar energy ensures proper meat storage and builds customer trust. Rateiwa notes: "What differentiates a thriving and struggling business at growth point shops is the lack or presence of solar-powered fridges and entertainment."
Agricultural Boost
Sungrip also offers solar-powered water pumping for piggery and poultry businesses, ensuring consistent water supply and supporting animal health and productivity.
The Bottlenecks & Dangers
Despite the boom, installation companies face massive hurdles, primarily regarding upfront capital, low-interest loans, and import logistics.
"We rely on imported lithium batteries, which increases costs as there is a lack of a local battery manufacturing plant in Zimbabwe," Rateiwa stated.
Exporting Ore, Importing Batteries
Despite Zimbabwe’s booming lithium mining industry, raw ore is exported, processed, and sold back as finished batteries at a premium. Rateiwa argues that a local manufacturing industry would be a massive game-changer for affordability.
Beyond customs and tariffs, the industry is plagued by unregulated services driving down prices unfairly.
"Unregistered individuals are churning out unscrupulous installers who pounce on unsuspecting customers offering tampered lithium batteries and cheap substandard installations," he warned. These unregulated services can lead to fires, electrical shocks, and undermine legitimate businesses.
Bridging the Wealth Gap
Is solar affordable for the average Zimbabwean? According to Rateiwa, the answer is no, mainly due to a lack of disposable income. However, the market is adapting.
Sungrip's 20% Model
To make solar accessible, Sungrip Solar Energy introduced a pay-as-you-go business model. A client pays only a 20 percent deposit after delivery and installation, with the balance paid over months. This flexibility is a game-changer for low- and middle-income households.
Government Policy & The 10-Year Outlook
Rateiwa believes the government must play an active role in accelerating adoption. His recommendations include:
- Net Metering: Allowing households to offset energy bills by feeding excess power into the grid at a guaranteed price.
- Financing: Providing low-interest loans for installation companies.
- Tax Breaks: Offering tax incentives for solar system installations.
Looking ahead to the next five to ten years, Rateiwa remains highly optimistic about the sector's trajectory.
"Zimbabwe’s solar energy industry is poised for rapid growth, driven by government support, abundant solar resources, and ever-increasing demand," he concluded.
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