Water–energy network provisioning services in Harare, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Water-energy systems are interlinked. Energy is used in the treatment and pumping of water. Water is used to generate electricity. Effective and efficient water-energy network provisioning satisfies households' basic human needs. Most local authorities in developing countries have seen water and energy scarcity amid climate change. The research aims to understand the interlinkages of water-energy services and to develop integrated and innovative green solutions in line with sustainable development goals. This study explores water and energy network provisioning to promote an integrated approach to planning and managing service delivery in Harare, Zimbabwe. The paper also establishes how water and energy provisioning challenges have affected household activities. The study embraced a sequential mixed-methods approach. In-depth interviews were used to solicit information from relevant departments and focus group discussions from communities. A total of 314 questionnaires were administered to five communities based on five settlement classifications. The study hinges on the ‘collective action theory'. Findings revealed poor governance issues, lack of finance and public participation in water-energy service delivery. Integration of sectors and community participation can improve the provision of water -energy services and contribute to reducing carbon emissions through greening households. HIGHLIGHTS Analysed urban water–energy network provisioning services.; Promote an integrated approach in the planning and management of water–energy service delivery in Harare.; Optimum policy options in the nexus to enhance synergies and reduces trade-offs.; Greening households through off grids network can reduce pressure on the ailing water–energy networks.; A collective action in the provision of water–energy services.;

Keywords

• collective action
• green households
• integrated approach
• network provisioning
• sustainability
• water–energy services