By Energy Reporter
Cabinet considered and approved the review of licences, permits, levies and fees in the Energy sector, in line with the Cabinet decision of 29 July 2025 which approved the implementation of a raft of business reforms in twelve sectors of the economy.
The review process is aimed at reducing the cost of doing business, increasing competitiveness and enhancing the growth of the Zimbabwean economy.
The review of licences, permits, levies and fees in the Energy sector followed extensive Whole-of-Government and Societal Approach consultations which were attended by Ministries, Departments and Agencies, and the energy sector players.
The energy sub-sectors licences, permits, levies and fees which have been reviewed are as follows: Electricity generation, transmission, distribution and secondary distribution; Petroleum importation, wholesale and retail; Liquefied Petroleum Gas importation, wholesale and retail.
Among the reviewed levies, licences, fees and permits, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) Licence Application fee has been reduced from US$2 500 to US$2 000 while the ZERA Solar Generation Licence of US$2 875 has been removed completely. The ZERA Petroleum Import (Procurement) Licence of US$30 000 has been reduced by 50%.”
The fuel retailing licence in rural areas has been reduced from US$200 to US$150 while the LPG retail licence will be reduced by 50% from the US$230 that is currently being charged.
Furthermore, it is noted that investment in the Energy sector has largely been driven by Government, and this model has become unsustainable, given the limited fiscal space and lack of access to external sources.
The reviewed licences, permits, levies and fees will be subjected to further refinements, and the appropriate schedule shall be duly gazetted after Ministries have effected the necessary legislative and administrative changes.
Source- Post Cabinet Briefing