LUSAKA, Jan. 6 (Xinhua) -- The Zambian government said Tuesday that studies have shown that a planned joint power plant project with Zimbabwe along the Zambezi River is viable.
"Extensive feasibility studies, undertaken with full consideration of climate change impacts, confirm that the Zambezi River system can sustainably support up to 2,400 MW at Batoka Gorge," Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote said in a statement.
Chikote said the project was designed to address challenges related to water availability and climate variability, including more efficient water use achieved through integrated operations with the Kariba Dam.
The project remains technically sound, environmentally compliant and economically justified, he said, adding that it is considered central to Zambia's long-term energy security.
The remarks come amid concerns raised by some critics, who argued that the project should be reconsidered, as it's located in an area that has experienced increasing aridity and relies on the Zambezi River, whose water levels have declined in recent years amid climate variability.
On Dec. 29, officials of Zambia and Zimbabwe said that each government would contribute 220 million U.S. dollars in equity funding to revive construction of the five-billion-dollar project.
In a statement issued after the meeting, the two governments said the funding structure would also include equity partners to further support the project's development.
The Zambezi River Authority, a joint institution responsible for managing the Kariba Dam, will oversee implementation of the Batoka Gorge hydropower project. ■
