LocationsBringing clean energy to the Hakwata village of Zimbabwe
October 10, 2024
Key stakeholders at the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the Hakwata minigrid system in Zimbabwe.
On 3 October, the Hakwata village in Zimbabwe will celebrate a significant milestone with the inauguration of a 200-kW solar microgrid system supported by a 900-kWh battery system, that will power a local clinic, school, shops and provide reliable electricity to over 80 households.
This USD 614,000 renewable energy project is part of the broader USD 13.6 million Climate Adaptation Water and Energy Programme (CAWEP), designed to assist rural communities in adapting to and building resilience against the impacts of climate change. Funded by the Government of United Kingdom, and delivered in partnership with UNDP Zimbabwe, the Rural Electrification Fund, and the Government of Zimbabwe, and the BMS/Information and Technology Management (ITM), the project signals Zimbabwe’s commitment to sustainable energy and rural development.
“The microgrid will not only bring clean power to the Hakwata community but also sets the example for similar renewable energy projects across the country designed to bridge the energy access gap in remote areas, providing rural communities with reliable and clean energy”, says UNDP Resident Representative Dr. Ayodele Odusola.
The Hakwata minigrid system in Zimbabwe, as part of UNDP’s ‘Smart Facilities’ initiative, provides clean energy and improves infrastructure for rural communities.
Energy as a catalyst for transformation
Located in the Chipinge District near the Mozambican border, Hakwata is one of the vulnerable regions in the area. Almost 100% of households fall below the poverty line and have remained without electricity; the nearest grid connection point located 16 kilometres away.
Firewood has been the primary source of energy for households, the clinic, and the school until now. In some cases, school children are required to bring firewood with them to class.
The solar microgrid installation will provide the community and its essential facilities with a reliable, clean power source. Equipped with battery storage, it ensures uninterrupted electricity even during periods of low sunlight and at night. Additionally, solar energy will drive borehole pumps at schools, clinics, and local shops to provide clean water. “The transition from inefficient, costly, and polluting fossil fuels will both improve daily life for the residents but also contributing to Zimbabwe’s environment and climate goals by reducing carbon emissions”, says Mr. Kudzai Ndidzano, Deputy Director Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife.
Looking ahead
With the microgrid in place, the next steps involve training local technicians to maintain the system and implementing energy use monitoring.
The Hakwata microgrid project exemplifies how communities can adopt clean, scalable energy solutions. It highlights the broader impact renewable energy can have on improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life in rural areas, offering a scalable model for sustainable energy adoption across the country.
The Hakwata minigrid system is part of UNDP's 'Smart Facilities' initiative. To learn more about this approach, visit the Smart Facilities website or email itm.business.development@undp.org to find out how the services and products can be used in your country context.
