Timeline for inaugural IEP announced as govt sets year-end target for updated IRP

The South African government aims to Gazette an update to the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) for electricity before the end of the 2024 calendar year and finalise South Africa’s inaugural Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) by the second quarter of the 2025/26 fiscal year. The timelines were provided during a meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy on August 23, which was briefed by Electricity and Energy Deputy Minister Samantha Graham-Marê, as well as officials from the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE).
/by

Eskom launches EV charging pilot programme in Midrand

As Eskom works to electrify its vehicle fleet and decarbonise its operations, the State-owned power utility is piloting electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at its Academy of Learning, in Midrand.

This marks a milestone in Eskom Distribution’s commitment to supporting the growth of the e-mobility sector in South Africa and decarbonising its operations.

/by

Renewables procurement and a grid survey make headlines

Engineering News editor Terence Creamer discusses the findings of the latest South African Renewable Energy Grid Survey; how the survey results will be used; and the mixed picture that has emerged for wind and solar projects following the latest public procurement round.  
/by

Koeberg Unit 1 licence extended to 2044

State-owned electricity utility Eskom announced in July that the National Nuclear Regulator (NNR) had extended the licence for Koeberg nuclear power station Unit 1, in the Western Cape, until 2044. This extension highlights Koeberg’s vital role in providing reliable baseload power while meeting stringent international safety standards. Eskom has operated Koeberg safely for 40 years, investing significantly in safety improvements and extensive maintenance.
/by

No indefinite end to loadshedding – Eskom

While South Africa is experiencing a significant period during which there is no loadshedding, more time is needed before State-owned electricity utility Eskom can confidently declare an end to loadshedding, says Eskom primary energy GM Dan Mashigo. Speaking at the 2024 Coal and Energy Transition Day, held at The Country Club, in Johannesburg, on July 23, Mashigo noted the progress made thus far, with a 7% to 8% year-on-year improvement from last year.
/by

Eskom committed to sustainable future

State-owned electricity utility Eskom is focusing on reducing coal intensity and expanding renewable energy as part of its commitment to a sustainable future. This shift in strategy prioritises maintaining plant health over simply “keeping the lights on at all costs” – a practice that has proven ineffective, according to Eskom primary energy GM Dan Mashigo.
/by

Grid challenges persist amid energy market changes

South Africa’s energy market is undergoing various changes, including the unbundling of State-owned power utility Eskom, as well as licence exemptions for independent power producers (IPPs). The latter has eased access for new projects, but has also affected grid access and publicly procured generation, says IPP Globeleq general counsel Marlise Schmidt. “Eskom, with its historical monopoly over generation, transmission and distribution in South Africa, has faced numerous difficulties, including financial challenges, ageing infrastructure and issues related to governance.”
/by