Econet InfraCo’s 100MW Solar Industrial Park: A New Chapter for Zimbabwe’s Industrial Energy
In early 2026, a major private-sector solar development was announced that could redefine how industrial power is generated, distributed, and consumed in Zimbabwe.
The 2026 Solar Industrial Park Project
In January 2026, Econet InfraCo, the infrastructure subsidiary of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, announced plans to develop a 100-megawatt solar-powered industrial park near Robert Mugabe International Airport in Harare. The development is one of the largest privately driven solar-industrial initiatives in the country.
The industrial park will cover approximately 300 hectares, strategically positioned close to Zimbabwe’s main international airport. This location supports logistics efficiency, export-oriented manufacturing, and rapid access to regional markets.
A 100 MW solar power plant will form the backbone of the development, supplying reliable, renewable electricity directly to businesses operating within the park. This embedded energy model reduces dependence on the national grid and shields tenants from power instability.
Strategic Purpose and Economic Impact
The core objective of the project is to reduce startup and operational costs for businesses by providing pre-installed infrastructure such as power, water, and digital connectivity. This removes a major capital burden that has historically slowed industrial investment.
In addition to solar power, the industrial park will include a large-scale data centre and modern logistics facilities. This integrated approach positions the site as a technology-enabled industrial ecosystem rather than a conventional factory zone.
Construction is being rolled out in phases, with the first phase already underway in early 2026. Solar generation capacity will be deployed progressively based on demand, allowing the project to scale sustainably and efficiently.
Econet Group’s Broader Solar Strategy
Through its renewable energy arm, Distributed Power Africa, the Econet Group has focused on large-scale solar solutions for commercial and industrial use. By 2026, 282 operational sites and eight corporate offices within the group had already transitioned to solar power.
Ugesi Solar complements this strategy by delivering residential and community solar solutions, particularly in areas with limited or no grid access. This ensures that the group’s renewable energy strategy addresses both industrial demand and household energy needs.
Econet has announced plans to list Econet InfraCo on the Victoria Falls Stock Exchange. The move is intended to unlock value from infrastructure assets while attracting long-term investment into renewable energy and industrial development.
A Shift Toward Solar-Led Industrial Growth
The Econet InfraCo solar industrial park reflects a broader transformation in how power is viewed in Zimbabwe — no longer as a constraint, but as a strategic enabler of growth. As private-sector solar infrastructure scales up, renewable energy is increasingly becoming the foundation of industrial development rather than a backup solution.
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