Auma-Solutions for a world in motion
Auma-Solutions for a world in motion

IDZB seeks studies of mini-hydropower project in Zimbabwe

The Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ) invites expressions of interest by 13 June from consultants to undertake a detailed feasibility study and environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) for the 2.4 MW Odzani hydropower project in Mutasa district, Manicaland province.

The mini-hydropower project, which is being developed by the Eastern Hydro and Electricity Supply Company at the site of an older facility decommissioned in the 1950s, near the river Odzani, is to be designed with the possibility of expansion to 3.6 MW. The project will entail rehabilitation of the existing weirs, penstocks, canals and construction of a powerhouse.

The consultancy assignment will entail the preparation of two separate studies namely: a full feasibility study for the proposed mini hydro plant; and, a detailed ESIA including include gender analytical frameworks and mainstreaming. The ESIA will include a detailed environmental and social management plan (ESMP). The consultant will analyse the technical, legal, financial, economic, environmental and regulatory aspects of the project. In undertaking the assignment, the consultants will also review all existing reports, studies and documentation.

The work will include but not be limited to an assessment of the demand and supply dynamics in the Zimbabwean power sector, global trends in the energy sector, technical feasibility of the project, hydrology, water flows, rock mechanics, institutional analysis, legal and regulatory frameworks, economic and financial analysis, climate change, cost analysis and capacity building.

The studies are required for the project to be implemented in a technically feasible, financially viable as well as environmentally and socially sustainable manner, and in full compliance with national legal and regulatory requirements as well as international best practises. Consultants may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications. The tender notice with qualifying criteria can be viewed on the website of the IDZB. A Consultant may submit only one expression of interest.

Expressions of interest must be submitted by e-mail or post to the address below on or before 13 June and clearly labelled “EOI Ref 29 of 2019: Feasibility Study and ESIA for the Odzani Mini- Hydro-Electric Power Generation Project.”

For further information contact: Kenneth Geyi, Procurement Executive, Procurement Management Unit, Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe; IDBZ House, 99 Rotten Row Road, PO Box 1720, Harare, Zimbabwe; Tel: +263 242 750171/8; Email: procurement@idbz.co.zw; Website: www.idbz.co.zw.