President Ramaphosa outlines ambitious plans to address energy challenges, focusing on renewable energy, private sector investment, and SOE reforms.
President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered his State of the Nation Address (SONA) 2025, outlining a bold vision for South Africa's energy future. He emphasized the nation's commitment to tackling its energy challenges head-on, while acknowledging the need for a sustainable and affordable approach.
The president highlighted significant progress made in alleviating load shedding, noting that the country has enjoyed a period without load shedding since March 2024, thanks to the government's Energy Action Plan.However, Ramaphosa also stressed the importance of completing energy reforms to ensure long-term energy security. He announced that the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act, which came into effect on January 1, 2025, marks a new era for South Africa's energy sector. This law will pave the way for a more competitive electricity market, allowing multiple generation companies to operate and fostering private sector investment in renewable energy.To achieve this vision, the government plans to invest heavily in energy infrastructure over the next three years, allocating R940 billion to upgrade and maintain existing infrastructure, build new power plants, and support renewable energy projects. This includes R375 billion earmarked by state-owned companies. Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa's potential as a leader in renewable energy and green manufacturing, emphasizing the abundant sun and wind resources that can power a green economy while creating jobs and boosting economic growth. The president also announced the establishment of a dedicated State-Owned Enterprise (SOE) Reform Unit to ensure efficient operation and improved governance of crucial SOEs like Eskom and Transnet. This reform will attract private investment and ensure public revenue is focused on providing essential services
ENERGY RENEWABLES SOUTH AFRICA PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA SONA 2025 INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT STATE-OWNED ENTERPRISES
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Electricity Amendment Act: A New Era for South Africa's Power MarketThe Electricity Regulation Amendment Act 38 of 2024 (ERAA) came into effect on January 1, 2025, aiming to transform South Africa's electricity sector. This article highlights key changes, including the establishment of the Transmission System Operator (TSO) and the introduction of an open market platform. However, it also points out potential contradictions within the Act that may hinder its goal of creating a truly competitive market. Concerns have been raised regarding the Act's impact on municipalities and the broad discretionary powers granted to the minister of mineral resources and energy.
Read more »
Top Battery Brands for South African Energy StorageThis article examines the evolution of battery technology and its role in addressing the challenges of intermittent renewable energy sources. It highlights the advantages of lithium-ion batteries over traditional options and explores the leading battery brands recommended by South African solar power experts.
Read more »
Trump’s Paris Agreement withdrawal will affect the Global South’s renewable energy futureThis is an opportunity for the Global South to forge new paths, emphasising regional cooperation, community-driven solutions and innovative financing
Read more »
South Africa's Battery Assembly Boom: Powering the Future of Renewable EnergySouth Africa is experiencing a rapid rise in battery pack assembly companies, driven by the increasing demand for renewable energy storage solutions. This trend is fueled by the adoption of solar power and electric vehicles (EVs) in the country. While South Africa currently lacks facilities for local battery cell production, companies are assembling battery packs using imported cells and locally manufactured components. Major players like Solar MD, Balancell, and Freedom Won are contributing to this growth, establishing significant production capacity and supplying batteries to a range of industries.
Read more »
South Africa to Re-evaluate Energy Mix to Lower Electricity CostsSouth African Minister of Electricity Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa stated that the country needs to re-evaluate its energy mix to make electricity more affordable for both individuals and businesses. He mentioned that business leaders at the World Economic Forum expressed concerns about the high cost of electricity, which impacts their competitiveness. Ramokgopa assured that the proposed 36% tariff increase will not be implemented and that the government is working to ensure more sustainable and significantly lower electricity increases.
Read more »
Solar Solutions Offer Long-Term Savings for South African Homeowners Facing Rising Energy CostsAs South Africans grapple with rising electricity tariffs, solar solutions are presented as a way to offset long-term energy costs. LookSee, a solar solutions provider, emphasizes the benefits of investing in solar energy and energy-efficient water heating to reduce reliance on the grid and save money on bills. The company offers personalized savings guarantees and post-installation support to ensure customers maximize their savings potential.
Read more »