PPC Boosts Solar Investments in Zimbabwe

July 28, 2025

Key Figures & Findings: South African cement producer PPC Limited has confirmed a 30 MW solar development in Zimbabwe as part of its broader push to cut energy costs and lessen dependency on grid-supplied power. The initiative spans projects at Colleen Bawn and Bulawayo and includes battery storage. PPC, which also operates in South Africa, is advancing several renewable energy projects to counter regional energy deficits and ensure operational resilience amid persistent outages.

Statistics & Insights: The Zimbabwe programme combines a 20 MW embedded solar-plus-storage plant at Colleen Bawn with an additional 10 MW facility in Bulawayo. PPC reported net cash increasing to ZAR118 million in the latest financial year, up from ZAR40 million.

Future Implications: The company indicated that its solar build-out could significantly reduce electricity costs and stabilise production in Zimbabwe by mid-2026. PPC also noted the projects would support its decarbonisation strategy while bolstering its market competitiveness.