By Levy Masiteng
Eskom on Tuesday unveiled its first fleet of 20 electric vehicles (EVs), led by the Distribution Division.
This marks a major step in the power utility’s shift toward sustainable transport and a cleaner energy future.
“This milestone showcases the benefits of electric vehicles, including lower emissions, reduced operating costs, and improved efficiency,” said Eskom spokesperson Daphne Mokwena.
The launch follows the installation of 10 charging stations across five sites last year to support the growing adoption of electric mobility.
Attendees at the event engaged with technical experts and test-drove the vehicles, which range from light delivery vehicles to light trucks.
They will be deployed primarily in the Distribution and Generation Divisions.
Mokwena added that Eskom plans to add another 100 EVs in the near future, underscoring its commitment to sustainable transportation.
Acting Group Executive for Distribution Agnes Mlambo said the initiative was about more than mobility.
“Eskom is taking steps to transform how South Africans move in a world where climate change is no longer a distant threat but an urgent reality. This is about reimagining the energy landscape, reducing carbon emissions, and ensuring every community benefits from the transition to sustainable transport,” said Mlambo.
Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane echoed the same sentiment, noting Eskom’s role in driving South Africa’s low-carbon future.
“Through e-mobility, we are cutting emissions, boosting innovation, and showing how sustainable energy solutions can create real benefits for communities and the economy. We see ourselves as more than just an electricity provider — we are enablers of progress,” he said.
Meanwhile, Eskom aims to fully electrify its Distribution Division fleet by 2035 and gradually transition its entire fleet.
The company also plans to expand charging infrastructure across its sites and roll out 55 public EV charging stations within the next two years.
Since 2021, Eskom has been working with government, automakers, petroleum companies, and research institutions to build an integrated e-mobility framework for South Africa.
“By embracing electric mobility, we are delivering tangible benefits to communities and the economy, while creating new revenue streams for Eskom,” Mokwena said.
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