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ETHEKWINI BECOMES FIRST METRO TO GENERATE ELECTRICITY FROM RENEWABLE ENERGY SOURCES
In a landmark development for South African municipalities, eThekwini Municipality has become the first metro in the country to receive approval to generate its own electricity from renewable energy sources.
This follows the announcement by Electricity and Energy Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, of a Section 34 Ministerial Determination that empowers eThekwini Municipality to procure new generation capacity to meet its growing energy demands.
Speaking at a joint media briefing, Minister Ramokgopa commended eThekwini for its persistence and strategic foresight, noting that the approval marks a major step forward in municipal energy autonomy and financial sustainability.
A Bold Energy Shift: 400MW of New Capacity
The approved programme will enable the Municipality to procure 400 megawatts (MW) of new generation capacity:
• 100 MW Solar PV
• 300 MW Gas-to-Power (GTP)
The focus is on dispatchable, reliable, and low-carbon energy technologies that will strengthen the city’s energy resilience.
Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba hailed the announcement as a historic milestone in eThekwini’s energy roadmap.
“This is a game-changer for our city. It enhances energy security, reduces dependence on the national grid, and positions eThekwini as a leader in sustainable urban development. The programme is projected to save the Municipality R5 billion over the duration of the Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), translating to R250 million in annual savings,” said Mayor Xaba.
The programme is also expected to:
• Unlock R8.5 billion in private investment;
• Create approximately 2,200 jobs during construction and operation phases;
• Reduce eThekwini’s reliance on the national grid by 18% once fully operational.
“This initiative is not just about energy, it’s about economic growth, industrial stimulation, and future-proofing our city,” added Mayor Xaba.
The procurement process will be rolled out in phases:
• Solar PV Request for Proposals (RFP) to be issued in December 2025, with construction expected by September 2027.
• Gas-to-Power RFP to follow in 2026, with further details to be announced in due course.
This pioneering move places eThekwini at the forefront of municipal energy innovation, setting a precedent for other cities to follow.
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