Invictus Energy has received environmental approval for its gas project in northern Zimbabwe, paving the way for pilot production and commercialization.
The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) granted approval for the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) of the project in the Cabora Bassa Basin.
This allows Invictus to proceed with activities like the Eureka Gold Mine gas-to-power project, which involves gas extraction, liquefaction, and transport from the Mukuyu gas field, as well as future operations across its licensed areas.
This project could significantly boost Zimbabwe’s energy self-sufficiency efforts, especially after the company’s December 2023 discovery of condensate gas in the Mukuyu fields.
Agreements for gas-to-power facilities, including one with Eureka Gold Mine, have already been signed. The success of the Eureka project could lead to larger-scale gas power production for the national grid, addressing the country’s severe power shortage.
Zimbabwe currently produces about 1400 MW of power against a peak demand of 2000 MW, relying on imports and power cuts to manage the deficit.
Invictus also plans to invest in power generation to supply the SADC region, which also faces power challenges. Aging equipment and water issues at existing power stations in Zimbabwe have worsened the situation.
Invictus’s initiative could be a turning point, given the potential to add to the already discovered 230 million barrels oil equivalent and 1.3 trillion cubic feet of gas from the Mukuyu structure.
Beyond power generation, the gas can be processed into petroleum and other valuable by-products. Downhole gas samples have revealed high-quality gas condensate with minimal impurities, making it ideal for low-cost processing.
Invictus managing director Scott MacMillan emphasized the company’s commitment to unlocking Zimbabwe’s gas potential and delivering value to shareholders and the region.
The ESIA approval is a crucial step toward pilot production, including the Eureka Gold Mine Gas-to-Power Project, a collaboration with Dallaglio (Eureka Mine’s owner) and Himoinsa SA (Eureka’s power provider). The project will use Mukuyu’s gas resources to provide reliable power to the mine. Invictus and Himoinsa are working with technology providers for gas processing, liquefaction, and logistics solutions for the feasibility study.
The ESIA builds upon a comprehensive 2019 study, which included extensive field surveys and baseline measurements across various disciplines, as well as socioeconomic and community consultations. Key stakeholders, including local leaders and government officials, were involved in the assessment process.
Invictus stated that the ESIA approval demonstrates its commitment to responsible and sustainable resource development, adhering to environmental and social governance standards while enhancing Zimbabwe’s energy security.
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