Date of Graduation

Spring 5-16-2025

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Energy Systems Management

College/School

College of Arts and Sciences

Department/Program

Energy Systems Management

First Advisor

Jalel Sager Ph.D

Abstract

Water scarcity and energy shortages are critical challenges in Zimbabwe, particularly in the semi-arid regions reliant on reservoir-based water supply systems. Evaporation losses from water reservoirs amplified by rising global temperatures has become a concern, particularly for Zimbabwe which has a relatively low water per-capita (776 liters). Electricity blackouts extending to 12-20 hours per day further worsens the situation by failing to pump available water, calling for solutions to enhance water and energy security. This study evaluates the feasibility of integrating Floating Photovoltaics (FPV) on the Umzingwane catchment dams (Umzingwane, Upper and lower Ncema, Insiza, Mtsabezi and Inyankun) to mitigate evaporation losses and improve electricity availability.

These 6 dams have approximately 33,770 thousand m² in area coverage and a holding capacity of 309.9Mm³ of water. Bulawayo has an average evaporation rate of 5.6mm/day, translating to 63Mm³ evaporation annually. Reviewed studies indicate that FPV can reduce evaporation, with coverage levels of 50% potentially saving over 23% (2.8Mm³/yr) of annual reservoir evaporation losses, while 75% coverage can reduce evaporation by up to 44% (22.8Mm³/yr) combined on Bulawayo’s six main water supply dams.

Additionally, FPV systems can contribute to energy security by generating clean electricity, Bulawayo has a good solar irradiance between 2000-2200kWh/m²-year, offering a substantial potential for solar electricity generation, reducing and mitigating load shedding challenges. At 23% coverage these dams can produce 1.3GW, at 50% coverage 2.70GW and at 75% produces 4GW, which at covering 25% of these 6 dams will be substantial to cover Zimbabwe’s current electricity deficit of 0.8GW. Floating PV demonstrated an efficiency gain of 10-12% over ground-mounted PV due to the cooling effect of water. The capital cost of FPV installations is approximately 25% higher per watt than traditional ground-mounted systems, leading to an estimated 20% increase in the levelized cost of energy (LCOE). However, FPV provides significant land savings by utilizing water surfaces instead of competing for limited land resources, making it an ideal solution for agricultural economies like Zimbabwe.

Furthermore, the integration of FPV contributes to climate change mitigation by reducing CO₂ emissions. This results in a substantial decrease in Zimbabwe's carbon footprint while enhancing the country’s renewable energy portfolio.

This study provides insights into the potential of FPV as a dual-purpose solution for water conservation and renewable energy generation in Zimbabwe. It offers recommendations for policymakers, water authorities, and energy stakeholders to facilitate the adoption of FPV technology, thereby supporting climate resilience, sustainable water and electricity management, and decarbonization efforts particularly in the Matabeleland region

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