There are multiple plans and programmes in place to address the power crisis although traction is needed in expediting them
Plans in place to address the electricity crisis include:
• Reduce reliance on Eskom, by enabling private sector investment in generation capacity, and • Encourage energy efficiency among businesses and households. 5. Transmission Development Plan (TDP) This plan outlines a 10-year roadmap for expanding the transmission grid. It envisions adding roughly eight 400 km of high-voltage lines and 119 transformers to the network by 2031. The expansion aims to accommodate a surge in renewable energy sources like wind and solar, often far from existing grid infrastructure. The plan prioritises fast-tracking grid connection projects to expedite the integration of new generation capacity. 6. Just Energy Transition Investment Plan (JET IP) The plan outlines a 5-year roadmap (2023-2027) to achieve a low-carbon economy while ensuring a smooth transition for workers and communities reliant on fossil fuels. It focuses on: • Decarbonisation: shifting away from coal-fired power plants to cleaner energy sources. • Economic development: creating new job opportunities in the green energy sector. • Social justice: supporting communities affected by the transition, including coal mine workers. The JET IP is a collaborative effort between SA and international partners who have pledged financial support.
1. The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP): • The IRP could be considered the overarching blueprint of the country’s energy objectives. The 2023 revision outlines the country’s electricity generation plan up to 2050. It emphasises a diversified energy mix to ensure security of supply, reduce emissions, and promote economic growth. • The plan acknowledges the need for a balanced approach that includes renewable energy sources like coal, nuclear, and gas. It also highlights the importance of energy efficiency and demand-side management. *The IRP is under review following public commentary and is yet to be finalised. 2. Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPP) It is a government initiative that aims to increase electricity capacity through private sector investment in renewable energy projects. It is a competitive bidding process, where independent power producers (IPPs) submit proposals for renewable energy projects. The government selects the most competitive proposals and awards them contracts to supply electricity to the national grid. 3. Risk Mitigation Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (RMIPPP) This is a programme designed by the government to address the country’s short-term electricity supply constraints. It procures new generation capacity from various energy technologies to reduce reliance on expensive diesel generators. Unlike REIPPP, which focuses on renewables, RMIPPP considers various sources of energy, including renewables, gas and coal. Its primary objective is quickly adding new capacity to the grid and reducing reliance on expensive peaking plants. 4. The Energy Action Plan (EAP) A comprehensive strategy to address the country’s energy crisis and achieve long-term energy security. It aims to: • Increase electricity supply through various means, including renewable energy sources,
CONCLUSION
The demand for energy has fallen, while the supply has increased. Nonetheless, excess demand remains high compensated for through load reductions, OCGT usage and international imports. Despite the yoy improvements in the EAF and load-shedding, energy supply is still insecure given the poor state of infrastructure. The crisis has spurred the establishment
of multiple plans and programs. Implementation of these plans are underway, however at a slow pace.
South Africa’s Energy Prospects
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