The Western Cape government says it’s on track to add nearly 2000 megawatts to the provincial energy grid in the next financial year.
The province says it’s also set to reach its target of almost 6000 megawatts of new energy capacity well ahead of its 2035 deadline.
On Friday, Western Cape premier Alan Winde chaired a meeting of the Western Cape Integrated Energy and Water Council to assess the province’s resilience efforts.
The Premier’s Special Adviser on Energy, Alwie Lester, told the meeting that 1,800 megawatts could be added to the grid in 2026/27 if current progress continues.
In a statetement issued on Sunday, the province says it remains on track to deliver 5,700 megawatts of new energy capacity by 2035.
The premier’s spokesperson Regan Thaw says the council also welcomed Cabinet’s move to publish the revised Electricity Pricing Policy for public comment.
“Many households nationwide are under increasing pressure from the soaring cost of electricity. This is much needed to stabilize the cost of electricity in the country.”
Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy Alexandra Abrahams also attended the meeting, pledging support for the Western Cape’s efforts to strengthen energy security.
Camray Clarke
www.ewn.co.za