Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe Builds Massive 70MW Solar Plant to Secure Energy Independence
In a major boost for Zimbabwe's power infrastructure, Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ) has commenced work on a colossal 70-megawatt solar power plant. This ambitious project is designed to secure a consistent and sustainable electricity supply for its critical mining and processing operations in Goromonzi.

The Strategic Imperative for Prospect Lithium Zimbabwe (PLZ)
This drive for energy independence is intrinsically linked to PLZ’s expansion into value-added processing. Rather than merely exporting raw lithium concentrates, the company is advancing its own beneficiation capabilities. Central to this strategy is a new US$400 million lithium sulphate plant at its Goromonzi site, which requires a substantial and reliable power source to begin production in the first quarter of 2026.
For a company like PLZ, a subsidiary of the global battery materials giant Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt, any disruption in power can lead to costly downtime and lost production. The solar facility will insulate its operations from the national grid's instability, which often faces a substantial shortfall against peak demand.
During a recent inspection of the Arcadia Mine, the Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Winston Chitando, underscored the importance of this investment, stating:
"The tour has revealed a massive construction being carried out by Prospect. They are constructing a 70-megawatt power station. This is coming from the investor’s recognition of the need to augment power supply..."
A Catalyst for National Energy Security
Zimbabwe's national grid often struggles to keep pace with soaring demand, which can reach up to 2,200MW against a domestic supply of around 1,400MW. By generating its own power, PLZ will significantly reduce its reliance on the grid, freeing up valuable megawatts for other households and industries.
This project aligns perfectly with government policy designed to attract Independent Power Producers (IPPs). It serves as a powerful example of how the private sector can play a critical role in solving the nation's energy deficit through renewable energy solutions.
A Wider Trend in the Mining Sector
PLZ is far from alone. A growing number of Zimbabwean mining and industrial firms are turning to renewable energy to insulate themselves from grid instability and meet sustainability objectives.
- Zimplats: Developing a massive 185MW solar project, with an initial 35MW phase already launched.
- Caledonia Mining (Blanket Mine): Successfully commissioned a 12.2MW solar plant in 2023 at a cost of US$14 million.
- Turk Mine: Effectively running its operations on a 4.4MW solar farm in Bubi District.
- Dinson Iron and Steel Company: Has invested in a 50MW internal generation facility in Chirumhanzu.
- PPC Zimbabwe: Announced plans for two solar plants worth US$40 million with a combined capacity of 30MW.
Frequently Asked Questions
PLZ, a subsidiary of Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt, is building a massive 70-megawatt solar power plant at its Arcadia Mine site in Goromonzi, Zimbabwe.
The primary reason is to secure a consistent and sustainable electricity supply for its mining and processing operations, particularly for its new US$400 million lithium sulphate plant. This move will reduce its reliance on Zimbabwe's unstable national grid.
Yes, there is a growing trend. Other major companies like Zimplats (185MW), Caledonia Mining (12.2MW), and Dinson Iron and Steel (50MW) are also investing heavily in their own solar power generation to ensure energy security.

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