BULAWAYO ZIMBABWE
Putting our Power to Work
Tshabalala solar site
Tshabalala is our pioneer solar site development
A beginning with a bigger purpose
A phased solar project designed to demonstrate how renewable energy investment can support a protected landscape and its surrounding communities.
The landscape
Tshabalala Sanctuary covers approximately 1,200 hectares of degraded thornveld savannah dominated by Acacia vegetation. Approximately 300 hectares are intended for the proposed solar development area.
This site lies approximately 4.5km from Insukamini substation where available grid capacity has been confirmed. Existing transmission lines run 50m from the site boundary directly to the substation.
Commercial merit, lasting impact
Tshabalala is a solid business opportunity in its own right, with strong commercial fundamentals underpinning its design as a viable solar investment.
Proximity to Insukamini substation, relatively flat terrain and long-term lease rights support cost-effective development and long-term operation. Feasibility studies inform the technical design and financial assessment, supporting the project’s development towards a bankable investment.
Our approach is to establish a commercially sound solar asset capable of generating long term electricity revenue, the foundation for investor returns and sustained conservation funding.
Grid proximity
A nearby substation and existing transmission infrastructure limit connection distances and associated costs, in line with the Grid impact assessment.
Suitable terrain
Relatively flat land supports efficient site layout and may reduce earthworks and construction complexity, subject to detailed surveys.
Long-term land rights
Long-term lease rights support investment planning and operation over the project’s intended life.
The first step towards a wider vision
Tshabalala Sanctuary, on the southern edge of Bulawayo in Zimbabwe, is the first site for the Conservation Energy model. A phased development will begin with the 10 MW solar pilot scaling up with completed potential of 200MW.
The proposed energy platform
10 MW
Proposed initial grid-connected solar pilot
22.2 GWh
Modelled annual generation using the conservative P90 estimate for the 10MW pilot
200 MW
Long-term phased platform vision
Energy and climate
Grid-connected solar contributes to a more diverse and stable national electricity supply. Generation, operational performance and avoided emissions will be tracked through defined boundaries and methodologies.
What the solar revenue will fund on site
16km of fencing
Controlled entry, surveillance and patrol support.
5 boreholes
Subject to sustainable yield assessment
Management Capacity
Access roads, vehicles, equipment, education and research
Water and fire
Water-point maintenance and fire management.
BUILDING THE FUTURE TOGETHER
Invest in a model designed for lasting change
Conservation Energy brings together capital investment, renewable-energy expertise and conservation partners around a shared purpose: a stronger future for protected landscapes and their communities.