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By Sona Brands

On July 14, 2024

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The once-reliable hum of Kariba Dam, a testament to human ingenuity and a vital source of power for Zambia and Zimbabwe, has been replaced by a troubling silence.

Climate change, with its erratic rainfall patterns and scorching temperatures, has caused water levels in Lake Kariba to plummet, crippling hydropower generation and plunging millions into darkness. This article explores the crisis gripping these nations and their desperate race towards a brighter, solar-powered future.

The Drying Up of a Lifeline: Kariba's Dwindling Waters

For decades, Zambia and Zimbabwe have been heavily reliant on Lake Kariba, the world's largest man-made lake, situated on their shared border along the mighty Zambezi River. However, the past few years have painted a grim picture. Since 2020, meagre rainfall and rising temperatures have conspired to push Kariba to its lowest recorded water level.

The Zambezi River Authority (ZRA), responsible for managing the lake, paints a worrying picture. As of July 9th, 2024, the lake's usable water for power generation (live storage) has dwindled from its designed capacity of 13 meters to a mere 1.73 meters.

This translates to a meager 11.9% of usable storage compared to last year's already concerning 31.16%.

The Looming Darkness: Zambia and Zimbabwe Race to Embrace Solar Power in the Face of Hydropower Woes

The consequences are stark. Power generation at the Kariba Dam has plummeted. Zambia's 1080 MW capacity plant now struggles to produce a meager 98 MW, while Zimbabwe's 1050 MW plant sputters at a meager 214 MW. With the rainy season months away, the future of these hydro plants hangs in the balance.

Living in the Dark: The Crippling Power Crisis

The impact of this crisis is felt across both nations. Extended daily power cuts, ranging from 12 to 18 hours, have become a harsh reality for millions of citizens. Businesses struggle to operate, homes are plunged into darkness, and basic necessities like refrigeration become luxuries.

"We've lost 800 MW," lamented Zimbabwe's Energy Minister Edgar Moyo, highlighting the crippling effect of reduced water levels. This lost capacity leaves Zimbabwe with a significant power deficit, with peak demand exceeding available supply.

Zambia faces a similar situation. Their installed capacity is heavily reliant on hydro (83%), making it vulnerable to climate change. Thermal and heavy fuel oil alternatives offer limited relief, while solar currently contributes a modest 3%.

The situation is further compounded by the struggles of Zambia's other hydro stations, also suffering from the drought's grip.

A Beacon of Hope: Embracing the Power of the Sun

Faced with this unprecedented crisis, both Zambia and Zimbabwe are accelerating their shift towards solar power, a renewable energy source offering a glimmer of hope.

Zambia has taken significant strides in this direction. A monumental $2 billion solar deal with Masdar, a UAE renewable energy company, promises the development of 2,000 MW solar projects. Additionally, power purchase agreements with SkyPower Global and the commissioning of the CEC Itimpi Solar Plant demonstrate Zambia's commitment to solar energy.

Similarly, Zimbabwe is collaborating with China Energy Engineering Corporation to develop a massive 1,000 MW floating solar plant on their side of Lake Kariba. A planned 500 MW plant near Victoria Falls further underscores their commitment to solar solutions.

The success story of South Africa, which transitioned away from the brink of power cuts thanks to a massive solar power push, serves as a powerful inspiration. With an average of 2,500 hours of sunshine annually, both Zambia and Zimbabwe possess the perfect conditions to harness the power of the sun.

A Race Against Time: The Road to a Brighter Future

The clock is ticking for Zambia and Zimbabwe. While the future remains uncertain, their rapid adoption of solar power offers a lifeline. The success of this transition will determine not only if they navigate the current crisis but also if they secure a brighter, more sustainable energy future, one powered by the abundant sunshine that bathes their lands.

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