Ekurhuleni welcomes approval to secure power from IPPs

The City of Ekurhuleni has welcomed official approval from the Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, to directly procure electricity generation from Independent Power Producers (IPPs). According to SABC News, this decision marks a significant advancement in South Africa's energy reforms and will bolster the city's electricity supply.

The 2,400 megawatts of energy to be procured is set to be generated through various planned projects, with a total investment of R16,2 billion. Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza expressed optimism about the project, stating that it will attract approximately R16,2 billion in infrastructure investment, with R10 billion specifically for Solar PV projects, R4 billion for waste to energy projects, and R1 billion for natural gas projects. Additionally, R1,2 billion will be allocated to other innovative energy technologies.

Mayor Xhakaza further highlighted the job creation potential of the venture, estimating that the project will generate around 4,000 construction jobs and approximately 600 permanent positions for the local community.