Johnathan Paoli
Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa announced a delay in both the finalisation of the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), and consequently the anticipated Bid Window Seven (BW7) plan; as well as plans to introduce 3GW of gas-fired power generation, a move aimed at mitigating the energy deficit adversely affecting the nation’s economy.
Delivering a briefing on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan on Sunday, Ramokgopa attributed the postponement directly to the delay in updating the draft IRP, which he said was now at an “advanced stage” and should be published before the end of November.
Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe previously promised that there would be public consultations on the document, termed ‘IRP 2023’, but had not provided clarity yet on how the drafting process has been managed.
“It’s important because it will inform all of our actions going into the future — what will constitute our energy mix. And of course that will determine what kind of investments, the scale of investments, that we will be making in the South African economy to ensure that we are able to meet that need, that we are able to resolve load-shedding and that, in the long term there is energy security,” Ramokgopa said.
Ramokgopa outlined key components of the government’s acceleration plan, which includes a 2GW mobile facility and a 1GW plant near Coega in the Eastern Cape. These projects are currently in the procurement stage, reflecting the government’s commitment to swift action.
The Electricity Minister also emphasised the prioritisation of 3,000MW of gas, citing its lower emissions compared to coal. Recognising the global shift towards cleaner energy sources, while he highlighted the importance of expediting gas projects to address environmental concerns.
Originally slated for release in September, BW7’s delay is tied to the protracted update of the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). Ramokgopa highlighted that the IRP, currently in an advanced stage, is expected to be published before the end of November.
In addition, the Minister announced his intention to initiate a comprehensive series of follow-up visits to Eskom’s vital power stations, reinforcing his commitment to addressing the challenges within the energy sector.
Starting in Mpumalanga, Ramokgopa is expected to visit the Kriel and Matla power stations on Wednesday, and proceed to the Camden power plant the following day.
Ramokgopa said that these follow-up visits, scheduled across various power stations, mark a significant step in the ongoing efforts to enhance the energy sector in South Africa. To also ensure a more reliable and sustainable supply of electricity, ultimately aiming to eliminate the persistent issue of load shedding.
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