Deputy President David Mabuza says the administration is looking into alternate energy generation options to ensure not only that the country’s electrical infrastructure is stable, but also that a just energy transition to a lower carbon footprint is made.
During a National Assembly meeting on Wednesday, the Deputy President was answering oral questions.
“Alternative energy generation methods are being studied and implemented as part of the 2019 Integrated Resource Plan to supplement electricity supply and improve grid stability.
“Furthermore, in collaboration with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa, the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy has issued determinations on the required new generation capacity,” he added.
He said that the administration was aware of the impact load shedding has on people’s lives.
“As a government, we are aware of the detrimental economic impact of load shedding, as well as the discomfort and pain it causes the country.”
“However, load shedding is a last resort tool to safeguard the system from a blackout, which is when the power network is completely shut down.”
According to Mabuza, the government has built a regulatory climate that encourages the market for alternative energy generation to open up.
“We must emphasize that Eskom’s load shedding is primarily due to problems in the old and outdated power producing infrastructure, not due to a limited market role for alternative power generation.”
“Improving the coal fleet’s dependability and predictability necessitates sufficient financial resources and generation capacity excess on the system to carry out the additional reliability maintenance required.”
“Eskom is spearheading the Generation Turnaround Programme to achieve this,” he stated.
As coal-fired plants and stations close, he says, new generation capacity must be added to the system to ensure energy security.
“Overall, the country requires between 4000 and 6000 megawatts of new generation capacity per year,” he said.
According to the Deputy President, Eskom has proposed an additional 8 000 megawatts of clean energy projects to be added to the grid over the next two to five years as part of the government’s just energy transition strategy.
“This is a mix of greenfield renewables and gas projects, as well as repurposing coal power plants.”
“The government is also considering a number of adjustments that would expedite the acquisition of Independent Power Producers and minimize red tape.”
The Deputy President stated that once all of the essential activities have been done, an announcement would be made.