Zimbabwe’s electricity import bill plunges 44%
STAFF WRITER
Zimbabwe’s electricity import bill fell by 44% to US$117m in 2025 from US$208.7m in 2024, reflecting a sharp improvement in domestic power generation and delivering significant foreign currency savings for the economy.
Latest data from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) shows the country saved approximately US$91.7m on electricity imports during the period, easing pressure on the national import bill and reducing dependence on external power supplies.
The decline marks one of the most significant reductions in electricity import expenditure in recent years and signals a turnaround in Zimbabwe’s energy sector following increased generation at Hwange Thermal Power Station.
RBZ Governor Dr John Mushayavanhu said the reduction was driven by a strong recovery in local electricity production.
“The country’s electricity imports stood at US$208.7 million in 2024 and US$117.0m in 2025. The 44% decline reflected a strong recovery and growth in local power generation in 2025,” he said.
“The declining import trend reflects improvements in domestic power generation capacity, primarily the successful integration of Hwange Thermal Power Station Units 7 and 8.”
The commissioning of the two expansion units has significantly boosted national generation capacity, enabling Zimbabwe to reduce imports from regional suppliers while improving energy security.
Between 2021 and 2025, Zimbabwe spent an average of US$171.7m annually on electricity imports, highlighting the substantial foreign currency burden the country has historically borne to meet domestic demand.
For years, persistent power shortages forced Zimbabwe to rely heavily on imported electricity to bridge supply gaps, with inadequate generation affecting industrial output, mining operations, agriculture and household consumption.
The sharp decline in import expenditure is expected to strengthen the country’s balance of payments position, conserve scarce foreign currency and support broader economic productivity by improving the reliability of electricity supplies. It also underscores the strategic importance of investments in domestic power infrastructure as Zimbabwe seeks to achieve long-term energy self-sufficiency and reduce exposure to external supply shocks.
