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by Judith Matanire
The Zambezi River Authority of Zimbabwe has recently made the decision to curtail power generation at the Kariba Dam due to lower water levels in the Zambezi River.
This decision comes as a response to the ongoing drought conditions in the region, which have significantly reduced the water flow into the dam and affected the ability to generate hydroelectric power.
The Kariba Dam, located on the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is one of the largest hydroelectric power stations in Africa and plays a crucial role in providing electricity to both countries. However, the current water levels in the dam are at a historic low, posing a serious challenge to power generation capacity.
As a result, the Zambezi River Authority has announced that it will reduce power generation at the Kariba Dam by up to 40% in order to conserve water and ensure sustainable operations in the long term. This decision is expected to have significant impacts on the electricity supply in both Zimbabwe and Zambia, as the Kariba Dam typically contributes a large portion of the total power generated in the region.
In a statement, ZRA chief executive Engineer Munyaradzi Munodawafa said a review of the 2023/24 season would be undertaken at the end of March.
“Based on the water allocation of 8 BCM per power utility, translating to an average power production of 214MW per Utility to the end of March 2024 when the 1st Quarter 2024 hydrological review falls due as per standing operational framework for Kariba dam reservoir operations.”
In response to these challenges, the Zambezi River Authority is working to implement measures to improve water efficiency and resilience in the region. This includes investments in alternative energy sources, such as solar and wind power, as well as initiatives to promote water conservation and sustainable development practices. Nhau/Indaba
