By: The southern African times

Invictus Energy Ltd (ASX: IVZ, OTCQB: IVCTF, VFEX: INV) has received a major regulatory boost after securing Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) approval from Zimbabwe’s Environmental Management Agency (EMA). This approval clears the path for pilot production activities at the Cabora Bassa Project, a key step in commercialising the country’s gas reserves.

The ESIA covers gas extraction, liquefaction, and transport from the Mukuyu gas field, along with future operations across Special Grant 4571 (SG 4571) and Exclusive Prospecting Orders (EPOs) 1848 and 1849. Invictus has also been issued License No: L10000062291, providing a formal green light for the commencement of pilot production.

With the regulatory hurdle cleared, Invictus Energy is advancing plans for its pilot production activities, including the Eureka Gold Mine Gas-to-Power Project. The project, developed in collaboration with Dallaglio (owner of Eureka Mine) and Himoinsa SA, will leverage the Mukuyu gas field’s resources to supply a stable and cost-effective energy source for the mining sector.

Preliminary feasibility studies for the gas-to-power initiative indicate a high look-through gas price exceeding US$10/GJ, underlining the economic attractiveness of the project based on current Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) grid tariff rates.

Invictus Energy Managing Director Scott Macmillan hailed the approval as a “critical milestone” that unlocks the company’s ability to finalise pilot production planning, secure additional permits, and engage potential offtake partners.

The ESIA approval marks a significant step forward for Zimbabwe’s gas industry, positioning the country as an emerging energy hub in Southern Africa. The study expands on Invictus Energy’s 2019 environmental assessment, one of the most extensive ever conducted in Zimbabwe, which included hydrological, ecological, archaeological, and socioeconomic surveys.

With pilot production now within reach, Invictus Energy is focused on securing long-term agreements and optimising technology for gas processing and liquefaction. The company’s progress highlights Zimbabwe’s growing potential as a regional gas player, with increasing interest from investors and industry stakeholders.