The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has stepped up efforts to improve livelihoods and accelerate rural development through renewable energy, commissioning a new solar-powered community mini-grid in Beitbridge, Matabeleland South Province.
The 120-kilowatt solar mini-grid, commissioned on Thursday in Tshitulipasi, is the 10th community solar plant established under the programme and is expected to transform the socio-economic landscape of the area by providing reliable and sustainable electricity.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony yesterday, the Minister of Energy and Power Development, July Moyo, said the availability of electricity would create new economic opportunities for the community.
“Agriculture will flourish in this area as our people gain access to energy that supports both farming and business activities. We want to see cottage industries emerging in Tshitulipasi so that our youths and the wider community can be economically empowered. Let us put this solar plant to good use,” he said.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, said the project would promote both environmental conservation and economic growth.
“The solar system will help preserve our forests because community members will no longer need to cut down trees for firewood. It will also enable communities to manufacture products for sale, as energy is a key driver of business growth. Every member of the community stands to benefit,” he said.
Residents welcomed the project, saying access to electricity will unlock business opportunities, improve education and enhance their quality of life.
“As businesses, we are now able to sell refrigerated products, something that we believe will promote business growth,” said one community member.
Another resident said the project would also improve learning opportunities for children.
“It is good for both businesses and the education of our children because they are now able to use computers,” the resident said.
Women in the community said the solar project would reduce the risks they previously faced while collecting firewood.
“As women, we feel empowered because our lives were often at risk when collecting firewood due to the presence of elephants in the area,” one resident said.
With an energy storage capacity of approximately 500 kilowatts, the solar mini-grid is expected to support productive economic activities, stimulate rural industrialisation and improve household livelihoods.
Traditional leader Chief Matibe expressed appreciation for the project, saying it would bring lasting benefits to the community.
“We appreciate this development as a community. Our people will utilise the power from this solar plant to empower themselves,” he said.
The solar mini-grid forms part of the Government’s broader rural electrification programme under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which seeks to transform rural communities from subsistence-based economies into productive industrial and commercial centres through increased access to modern infrastructure and clean energy.
