Toward a sustainable and decarbonized grid: Zimbabwe’s readiness in adopting nuclear and green hydrogen energies

Abstract A shift toward a sustainable and decarbonized power grid is one of Zimbabwe’s main goals in the energy sector. This study comprehensively analyzes the country’s readiness to implement green hydrogen and nuclear energy generation. Despite the extensive energy studies available in literature, the question of whether the country is ready to adopt these two technologies remains unanswered. The literature lacks information on how well the country is prepared for green hydrogen production for its industrial applications. Therefore, this paper begins with a synopsis of current electricity generation and consumption trends, followed by overviews of nuclear energy and green hydrogen generation, respectively. The country’s readiness to adopt the technologies under study is then examined by considering the available infrastructure, economic status of the country, supporting policies, regulatory frameworks already in place, social acceptance, and the potential positive and negative impacts. An analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis is implemented, emphasizing the critical factors that must be considered. Recommendations are outlined to enable a strategic and seamless adoption of green hydrogen and nuclear energy, specifically small modular reactors. The main findings indicate that Zimbabwe currently relies on thermal and hydroelectric energies, with an increasing demand for electricity, particularly in the mining sector. In addition, adopting green hydrogen and nuclear energy primarily results in improved grid resilience, reduced electricity supply-demand gap, economic growth through increased investments, and mitigation of poverty. However, insufficient policies and regulatory frameworks, as well as increased safety concerns, can hinder the implementation of these projects. However, these limitations can be effectively minimized by technological advances or international and regional collaborations. Hence, comprehensive economic reforms, supporting policies, and regulations are required, along with capacity-building investments. The study provides policymakers, investors, and stakeholders with insights into the substantial benefits of considering these energy sources for a decarbonized and sustainable energy future.