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In a groundbreaking move, the Gauteng Provincial Government (GPG) is set to establish an 800MW solar farm park, a significant step to address power shortages and contribute to energy stability. Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced this ambitious project during the State of the Province Address in Johannesburg, highlighting its potential to be a game-changer for the province.
The long-term plan, approved in collaboration with the Sibanye-Stillwater Board, involves leasing land to six independent power producers. These producers will develop a photovoltaic power station, creating a solar farm cluster in the Merafong Local Municipality. The initiative aims to harvest 800 megawatts of solar power, providing a substantial boost to the electricity grid.
Additionally, Gauteng is set to augment its energy grid by adding at least 100MW from April. This initiative, spearheaded by the GPG and implemented by City Power using Open Cycle Gas Turbine technology facilities, is expected to be operational from April 1, 2024. Plans for further expansion to 300 megawatts in the new financial year are underway, combining with smart meters to cushion residents against two stages of load shedding, a critical step towards energy stability.
To address immediate concerns, the province has initiated measures to safeguard 21 healthcare facilities from load shedding by installing Solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage systems. Moreover, a microgrid pilot project in Alexandra township is set to provide a stand-alone solution for basic power needs in low-income households within townships and informal settlements, with plans for expansion to 13 other communities.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi emphasized the province’s commitment to addressing challenges faced by communities, intervening in situations of prolonged darkness due to illegal connections, cable theft, vandalism, and chronic non-payment. The provincial government, in collaboration with Eskom and City Power, has delivered 429 transformers to communities, benefiting over 32,000 township households.
Despite energy not being within the province’s competency, Lesufi highlighted the crippling effect of load shedding on the state’s functionality and broader society, prompting interventions to mitigate the impact on residents and the economy. |
