The five-year supply term will supply 20MW of daily power - more than the estimated 16MW/d the lithium mine will need.

There is also an option for an additional 25MW/d of power supply should Arcadia further expand, or if downstream processing is implemented in the form of a lithium carbonate or hydroxide plant. It also allows for other future services and projects, such as the development of the methane gas-to-power project.

"All assets are covered by existing powerlines ranging from 11kV to 33kV," the company said of the infrastructure that will deliver the power. "Drilling test and production wells will be placed within 4-8km from power distribution lines."

The primary source of the power supply is from the national electricity grid. Owned and operated by Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution, the main distribution lines are just a short distance adjacent to Arcadia.

"Prospect has secured Arcadia's required supply at this interconnection…the MOU provides Arcadia with optionality for power supply and competitive tension for future supply agreements," miner officials said.

Prospect managing director Sam Hosack added: "Prospect is creating an ecosystem anchored by the Arcadia mine. This positive multiplier effect will boost investment in Zimbabwe and deliver a raft of benefits to the economy and the community."

Arcadia has an estimated mine life of 12 years using open-pit mining.