KEY POINTS
- Eskom plans over 2 GW of renewable energy projects by 2027.
- It marked 200 days without load shedding with improved reliability.
- Public hearings on a 36% electricity tariff hike begin in November.
South Africa’s power utility Eskom is planning renewable energy projects at some of its stations, with the electricity minister expressing support for increasing new generation capacity.
Eskom seeks policy support to pursue renewable energy projects
Speaking Monday at the Lethabo Power Station in the Free State, Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa said Eskom’s shift to renewable energy won’t be restricted by policy or fiscal constraints.
“Eskom 2.0 is my reference,” Ramokgopa said. “Eskom wants to enter the terrain of renewable energy generation and will reveal plans when ready.”
The government will review Eskom’s proposals before making a ministerial determination. Ramokgopa emphasized that Eskom’s renewable energy push will not crowd out private sector efforts.
“There is enough space for everyone to participate,” he added.
Eskom CEO Dan Marokane said the utility will play a key role in South Africa’s energy supply by blending new technology with ageing infrastructure.
“As we phase out some stations, we need new technologies to ensure continuity,” Marokane said.
Eskom plans to develop over 2 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy in the next three years. A 75-megawatt (MW) solar plant at Lethabo is under review, with further projects identified for five stations in Mpumalanga.
Eskom is exploring funding through private partnerships and internal resources to move forward with these projects.
Eskom celebrates 200 days without load shedding, eyes tariff changes
Eskom recently marked 200 days without load shedding, thanks to its Generation Operational Recovery Plan, which improved the Energy Availability Factor (EAF) by 7.7%, ESI Africa reported.
“This recovery supports economic growth and strengthens our financial outlook,” Marokane said.
The utility aims to reach a 70% EAF by March 2025.
Public hearings for Eskom’s proposal to raise electricity tariffs by 36% begin in November. Ramokgopa said policies beyond tariffs will help Eskom meet its financial obligations while minimizing the impact on consumers.
