A path to more reliable energy in KwaDukuza
KwaDukuza Municipality's electrical department executive director, Sibusiso Jali, said loadshedding negatively affects the municipality's growth and business environment.
The Vuthela iLembe LED Support Programme recently hosted Synergy for Energy seminars to, among others, identify options for reliable power supply in the KwaDukuza area.
These seminars emphasised the necessity of cooperation between public and private sectors to combat ongoing loadshedding issues.
The energy landscape is changing, with plans to augment Eskom’s supply with electricity from Independent Power Producers (IPPs), using various sources such as solar, hydro, biomass, gas or ocean energy.
A draft policy for IPP appointments is underway, along with a review of tariffs and contracts for electricity resellers.
The Electricity Amendment Bill and the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM) are progressing.
Locally, KwaDukuza approved an energy policy and a feasibility study will assess costs and infrastructure needs.
KDM’s director for special projects, Chimene Pereira said: “The cost implications are not yet fully understood. There is potential for revenue losses, and tariffs must still be determined. We are not entirely sure what the financial implications for local government will be under the new policy.”
KDM’s electrical department executive director, Sibusiso Jali, said loadshedding negatively affects the municipality’s growth and business environment.
The new policy will change the way electricity is generated and procured, with the council playing a greater facilitation role in the process.
Strategies may involve rooftop solar, standalone power plants and electricity services.
Sinawo Sigalelana of Sustainable Energy Africa praised the policy for supporting embedded generation but noted gaps in guidance for larger projects and standards adherence.
The Electricity Regulation Amendment Bill aims to create a competitive electricity supply industry, improving Eskom’s performance.
SAREM seeks to boost renewable energy demand and foster inclusive development.
The Vuthela Programme is funded by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs.
Follow The North Coast Courier on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram & YouTube for breaking news
Telegram Broadcast Service: https://t.me/joinchat/yJULuN8NaCs5OGM0
