The Infrastructure and Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ) has announced a call for contractors to undertake the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of the 5MW Gutu solar project, located in Gutu District, Masvingo Province.
According to the tender the contractor must provide full or partial project financing, as well as carry out the subsequent operations and maintenance of the solar facility. This initiative marks a significant step in Zimbabwe’s efforts to expand its renewable energy infrastructure.
The Infrastructure and Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ) joined forces with the Gutu Rural District Council (GRDC) as co-sponsors to develop the 5MW solar power plant at Berry Springs and Wheatlands Farms in Gutu District, Masvingo Province.
The project is being executed by Chatsworth Energy (Private) Limited, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) set up by the Bank specifically for this venture. The site, covering 15 hectares, is located approximately 8 kilometers north of Gutu-Mupandawana town.
The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) conducted a Grid Impact Assessment (GIA) that confirmed that the project would positively contribute to the grid.
Additionally, a comprehensive Bankable Feasibility Study, which included an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), was conducted by SOWITEC Kenya Limited, a Kenyan consulting firm, in collaboration with MAZEDECK Ventures (Private) Limited, a Zimbabwean consultancy. This study, co-funded by the Infrastructure and Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ) and the French Development Agency (AFD), concluded that the project is technically feasible, financially viable, and can be executed in a manner that is both socially responsible and environmentally sustainable.
Solar project to bolster Zimbabwe’s renewable energy goals
Once operational, the 5MW Gutu Solar Project will link to the 33/11 kV Gutu substation, which lies just 1 kilometer from the project site. The substation is operated and maintained by the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) Eastern Region. This connection will allow the solar plant to supply clean energy to the national grid, supporting Zimbabwe’s push toward increasing renewable energy capacity and fostering sustainable growth.
Expressions of interest for the project must be submitted no later than April 14, 2025. All submissions should be comprehensive and include detailed proposals outlining the contractor’s capabilities, relevant experience, and approach to the engineering, procurement, construction, financing, and subsequent operations and maintenance of the 5MW Gutu Solar Project.
Late submissions will not be considered, and interested parties are encouraged to adhere strictly to the deadline to ensure their proposals are evaluated. Further instructions and submission guidelines can be obtained from the project’s official documentation or the designated contact points provided by the Infrastructure and Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ).
