South Africa To Generate More Power From Clean Energy Than Coal For The First Time

For the first time in the country’s history, South Africa will generate more electricity from clean energy sources than from fossil fuels such as coal, Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa announced.

The historic transition forms part of the newly approved Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which replaces the 2019 version. The revised plan outlines a diversified energy mix designed to reduce dependence on coal while ensuring the country’s energy security.

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Ramokgopa emphasised that renewable sources — including solar, wind, hydro, and nuclear power — will take centre stage as South Africa accelerates its shift towards a sustainable future.

“This does not mean coal will be phased out completely,” the minister clarified. “But the transition to cleaner energy is crucial for both supply security and environmental responsibility.”

New Energy Plan Aims to End Load Shedding and Lower Costs

According to Ramokgopa, the IRP is designed to eradicate load shedding, reduce electricity costs, and minimise the environmental footprint of South Africa’s power generation system. The plan aligns with global trends toward a net-zero emissions future and reflects government efforts to stabilise the national grid.

The minister noted that electricity tariffs have risen by more than 900% since 2007, underscoring the need for long-term and sustainable energy solutions that protect consumers and drive economic growth.

“For the first time, you are going to see that electricity that is generated from cleaner sources of energy is going to be greater than the fossil fuel,” Ramokgopa said, highlighting the milestone as a major turning point in the nation’s energy strategy.

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Ramokgopa also revealed that the government will leverage technical expertise from universities and TVET colleges to implement the new energy plan effectively. This initiative aims to equip South Africa’s workforce with the skills needed to sustain the growing clean energy sector.

He stressed that collaboration with educational institutions and technical experts will be key to ensuring the success of the transition, enabling the country to build a robust and future-ready energy infrastructure.

As South Africa prepares to embrace this cleaner, more resilient power system, the IRP represents a significant step towards an environmentally responsible and energy-secure future.

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