Zera, RCZ call for research proposals on energy
THE Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera), in partnership with the Research Council of Zimbabwe (RCZ), has called for research proposals aimed at addressing energy production, delivery and storage challenges, including the exploration of nuclear energy.
The initiative seeks innovative solutions to operational and developmental issues in the energy sector, enhancing the reliability of generation, transmission, distribution and supply of modern energy. It also emphasises the incorporation of heritage-based knowledge in research.
Government has expressed interest in nuclear power generation as part of its strategy to diversify Zimbabwe’s energy mix. Uranium deposits in the Zambezi Valley are believed to be a potential resource for this initiative.
In 2022, Zimbabwe signed a memorandum of understanding with the Russian State Atomic Energy Corporation (Rosatom) to explore peaceful uses of atomic energy. Rosatom, Russia’s largest electricity producer, operates 35 power stations in 12 countries.
The research proposals should align with the 14 thematic areas of the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1), the National Energy Policy, Vision 2030 and the National Research Priorities.
“The research should be practical, usable and address both challenges and opportunities for the country,” reads part of the notice.
Key research areas include energy shortfalls and load-shedding impacts and costs, transmission and distribution losses, renewable energy and energy efficiency innovations, electricity infrastructure protection against vandalism and theft, e-mobility, nuclear energy and biomass energy utilisation.
Funding is open on a competitive basis to Zimbabwean researchers in engineering, physical and social sciences and other disciplines affiliated with local academic institutions, research organisations, or government departments. Private sector researchers and non-profit organisations linked to approved public institutes are also encouraged to apply.
The deadline for applications is January 31, 2025.
Energy is a critical enabler of the country’s modernisation and industrialisation agenda under NDS1, promoting sustainable socio-economic growth.
To address persistent power shortages, Government is implementing various electricity generation projects funded through extra-budgetary allocations, loans and private-sector partnerships.
Under Vision 2030, Zimbabwe aims to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix. By 2030, renewable energy capacity—excluding large-scale hydropower—is expected to rise from five percent in 2017 to 27 percent.
The adoption of a diversified energy mix has eased pressure on the national grid as households and industries increasingly turn to renewable energy sources. Solar energy, in particular, has gained popularity as a means to reduce reliance on the grid, especially during high-demand winter months.-chronicle
