Eskom powers up EV drive with new Durban charging hubs

As fuel costs continue to strain motorists' budgets, South Africa's transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is accelerating, increasing the demand for charging infrastructure. In response, Eskom has inaugurated new public EV charging stations at Durban's Gateway and Pavilion shopping centers, expanding its network amid rising interest in electric vehicles. The event took place during National Transport Month, which highlights advancements in South Africa's transport sector, including emerging electric mobility initiatives.

The newly opened charging facilities align with Eskom Distribution's broader e-Mobility program, which aims to electrify its fleet, install charging infrastructure, and gradually extend a public charging network nationwide. Speaking at the official opening, Zuhdi Hamza, Eskom Distribution's acting general manager of operations enablement, emphasized that the facility represents Eskom's evolving role in providing innovative energy solutions that cater to changing customer needs and support the nation's economic and developmental objectives.

Hamza noted that the launch is a significant step towards establishing a modern, accessible, and connected electric mobility ecosystem for South Africa.

Eskom has already deployed 92 electric vehicles and 104 charging stations across 68 sites, including partner locations. In KwaZulu-Natal alone, 15 sites and 15 charging stations have been commissioned. To promote EV adoption and spur market growth, Eskom is offering 20% introductory discounts for the first six months at its charging stations.

The company has identified 84 potential public charging sites across its five clusters, with discussions with property owners at various stages. These planned expansions will extend charging infrastructure to strategic locations, underserved areas, and key transport corridors.

Although vehicles currently represent a small portion of South Africa's vehicle market, high purchase prices and limited charging infrastructure remain significant obstacles to broader EV adoption. However, the EV and hybrid market is evolving rapidly as fuel and diesel costs increase, with demand for used hybrids surging and consumer interest in alternative-energy vehicles growing, despite high import taxes and the infrastructure gap.