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By Sona Solar Knowledge & Solar Systems Education Team

On February 25, 2026

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BUSINESS & ENERGY

Proton Bakers Goes Green: Massive 1MVA Solar Plant Powers Marondera Industrial Giant

Written & Curated from the Desk of: Oudney Patsika
Editorial Strategist at Sona Headlines | Chief Digital Officer (CDO) at Solar Reviews Zimbabwe
Digital Managing Editor (DME) at Solar Quotes Zimbabwe | Head of Marketing and Strategy at Sona Solar Zimbabwe.

Baking with Sunshine: Marondera’s industrial landscape has reached a sustainable milestone as Proton Bakers, Zimbabwe’s premier confectionery manufacturer, officially commissioned a massive 1 MVA solar energy system. Developed by Solar Energy Projects, the plant features 1,788 high-efficiency solar panels designed to insulate high-volume production lines from the instability of the national grid. By transitioning to this reliable, renewable power source, the bakery has secured the energy-intensive processes required for its countrywide supply chain, drastically reducing operational costs and lowering its carbon footprint while setting a new benchmark for corporate environmental stewardship in the region.

Proton Bakers 1MVA Solar Plant Installation

1,788 PANELS

Industrial Shift: Proton Bakers reduces its carbon footprint with a new 1 MVA solar system in Marondera.

Industrial Grid Integration: Beyond internal energy security, the project highlights a sophisticated approach to energy independence through a strategic net-metering agreement with the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC). During peak sunlight hours, excess electricity generated by the 1 MVA facility is fed back into the national grid, transforming Proton Bakers from a traditional consumer into a proactive contributor to Zimbabwe’s clean energy supply. This innovative model aligns with the government’s National Renewable Energy Policy (NREP) targets for 2026, demonstrating that large-scale industrial success can thrive through green energy investment and grid-tied sustainability.

Daniel Chipato, Chief Sales Officer

"To mitigate the impact of unreliable power supply, we decided to invest in a solar power plant. This ensures a reliable power supply even when the sun is no longer shining."

Strategic Shift: Why Solar?

Combating Power Instability

"The country faces significant challenges regarding electricity supply," noted Daniel Chipato, Proton's Chief Sales Officer. He highlighted that issues at Kariba and Hwange power stations often led to power cuts, resulting in product losses during critical baking stages.

The move to solar is primarily a risk mitigation strategy, ensuring that the precision-timed baking processes required for Proton's famous bread and confectionery are never interrupted.

Cost Reduction & Efficiency

Beyond reliability, the solar plant is expected to have a significant impact on the company’s bottom line. Clean energy from the sun is a cheaper alternative to the diesel generators previously used to bridge power gaps.

"This investment will help us reduce our reliance on generators, which will not only save costs but also minimize noise pollution and emissions," Chipato explained.

Engineering Marvel: The 1 MVA System

System Specifications

The sheer scale of the project is a testament to Proton Bakers’ commitment to modern engineering. Executed by the specialized firm Solar Energy Projects, the system comprises:

Capacity: 1 MVA (Mega Volt Amp)
Harvesting Field: 1,788 high-efficiency solar panels spread across the Marondera facility.
Battery Storage: Harnessing energy during the day for use in the evening.

Environmental Stewardship

"Sustainability is a prominent topic," Chipato emphasized. By replacing fossil fuels with solar power, Proton Bakers is significantly reducing its carbon footprint.

The move also creates a quieter workspace by silencing roaring generators, enhancing productivity and employee well-being in a noise-free environment.

Grid Integration & Net Metering

Feeding the National Grid

What makes this initiative particularly impactful is its integration with the national power utility. Through a net-metering agreement with ZETDC, the system is designed for maximum national benefit.

During peak sunlight hours, when the solar panels generate more electricity than the factory requires, the excess power is fed back into the national grid.

Public-Private Partnership

This two-way energy flow means Proton Bakers has transitioned from being a mere consumer to a contributor to Zimbabwe’s clean energy supply.

This aligns perfectly with the Government’s call for private sector participation in renewable energy, helping to stabilize the national power supply for other consumers.

Community & Future Outlook

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Chipato noted that the company’s commitment extends beyond energy. Proton continues to implement CSR initiatives, including employing locals, supporting old people’s homes, and partnering with schools.

"Our CSR initiatives have had a positive impact on the communities we operate in, providing employment opportunities and supporting vulnerable groups," he said.

Vision for 2026

Looking ahead, Proton Bakers is optimistic. "As we approach the end of the year and look forward to 2026, we are optimistic about continued growth," Chipato concluded.

The company plans to continue investing in digital transformation and expanding its product portfolio based on customer feedback, ensuring that the sun indeed powers the future of local industry.

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