Zimbabwe has submitted its 2035 climate plan to the UN, focusing on balancing energy security with emissions reduction. This plan includes increased coal use and a transition towards natural gas, alongside efforts to expand renewable energy projects, despite funding and infrastructure challenges. Aiming for a 40% reduction in per capita emissions by 2035, Zimbabwe emphasizes the need for external support for its climate initiatives.
Zimbabwe proudly became the only African nation to submit its 2035 climate plan, known as the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC), ahead of the UN deadline of February 10. This achievement stands in contrast to prevailing concerns regarding climate plans and the pressures associated with transitioning to greener energy sources, often at significant short-term economic costs.
The submitted plan, while emphasizing the need for greener initiatives, correctly identifies the necessity of relying on coal and gas in the immediate future. This juxtaposition highlights the nation’s commitment to balancing energy security against the pressing need for emissions reductions, particularly in light of Zimbabwe’s current energy challenges.
Key elements of Zimbabwe’s climate plan include an increased reliance on coal due to severe droughts that have impeded hydropower generation. The plan outlines refurbishment of the Hwange coal power station alongside the construction of a new 720 MW coal facility to combat power shortages.
In the medium term, the strategy includes a shift toward natural gas to supplement coal usage as a means of reducing carbon emissions while ensuring a reliable energy supply. Furthermore, Zimbabwe aims to expand its renewable energy projects, particularly in solar and wind technology, though financial limitations and infrastructural hurdles hamper these efforts.
Despite challenges, the Kariba hydroelectric plant, typically responsible for generating approximately 40% of the nation’s electricity, currently operates at a diminished capacity of merely 185 MW due to inadequate water resources. Zimbabwe’s target is to achieve a 40% reduction in per capita emissions by 2035 compared to a business-as-usual scenario, with projections indicating that energy sector emissions will peak in 2026 before entering a decline.
Ultimately, this plan captures the dual challenge of ensuring reliable electricity supply while gradually transitioning toward cleaner energy solutions amid economic constraints. For a swift green transition, it is essential that the global community provides necessary funding, as Zimbabwe presently lacks the financial capacity to undertake these changes independently.
The need for coal remains critical as rolling blackouts continue to disrupt the lives of citizens, making a balanced approach between immediate energy needs and long-term sustainability vital for the nation’s welfare.
In summary, Zimbabwe’s climate plan reflects a pragmatic approach, acknowledging the need for immediate energy security through coal and gas while striving for progressive emissions reductions. The challenge rests in the balance between economic viability and environmental responsibility, necessitating global support to accelerate the transition to green energy sources.
Original Source: www.techzim.co.zw
