ZESA Assures Stable Power Supply Over Festive Season

ZESA Holdings says Zimbabwe will experience a stable power supply with minimal load shedding during the 2025 festive season, citing improved generation and imports (image source)

HARARE — Power utility ZESA Holdings has assured consumers of a stable electricity supply during the 2025 festive season, citing improved domestic generation, additional imports and reduced demand as key factors supporting the outlook. The assurance comes as households and businesses prepare for one of the busiest periods of the year, traditionally marked by heightened electricity use.

In a statement, ZESA said it expects minimal load shedding over the holiday period, reflecting stronger performance from key generation assets. “We project a stable power supply environment this December, with minimal system constraints and load management,” the utility said.

The improved outlook has been attributed to increased output from Hwange Power Station Units 1 and 2, as well as Kariba Power Station, complemented by contributions from independent power producers. ZESA also confirmed that Zimbabwe has secured additional electricity imports through the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), providing a buffer against potential shortfalls. “Additional energy secured through the SAPP market will augment domestic generation and further stabilise supply,” the utility said.

Electricity demand is expected to decline over the festive season as many industries shut down or scale back operations, easing pressure on the national grid. Analysts note that this seasonal drop in demand, combined with improved generation capacity, should significantly narrow the supply gap. ZESA said these factors together are expected to result in “minimal load shedding during the festive period”.

The utility added that its 24-hour National Contact Centre will remain fully operational, with technical teams on standby nationwide to respond to faults and emergencies. The assurance is welcome news for businesses and households that have endured prolonged periods of erratic power supply in recent years.

Stable electricity over the festive season is expected to support retail activity, hospitality services and social gatherings, while also boosting confidence in ZESA’s grid stabilisation efforts. Industry observers caution, however, that while short-term stability is encouraging, long-term reliability will depend on sustained investment in generation capacity, transmission infrastructure and renewable energy integration. For now, ZESA’s announcement offers relief and cautious optimism as Zimbabweans prepare to celebrate the holiday season with fewer power disruptions.