Zimbabwe’s power needs to skyrocket as mining booms
Zimbabwe faces an electricity demand that could more than double to 5,000 megawatts within five years from current levels of 2,200 megawatts, with mining operations driving much of the anticipated increase. IH Securities released figures in its third quarter 2025 research showing the mineral extraction industry has expanded under government development plans running from 2020 through 2025, with authorities promoting exploration investments and supporting smaller operators alongside value addition programs.
The southern African nation possesses more than 40 mineral types, particularly platinum group metals, chromium, gold, coal, lithium, and diamonds. Mining generates roughly 12 percent of national economic output and accounts for 80 percent of export earnings. Gold shipments to Fidelity Gold Refiners jumped 37 percent through September to nearly 33 metric tons, while export values climbed to $3.2 billion. However, palladium output dropped nine percent during the first half of 2025 as automotive sector changes reduced global demand, with platinum falling seven percent, nickel declining 21 percent, and copper retreating 25 percent.
Analysts project sector growth will reach 2.9 percent this year before accelerating to 5.5 percent in 2026. Capacity additions by Zimplats and Karo Mining should boost platinum group metals production, with the local platinum sector expected to generate $2 billion in total mining revenue.
