H.E Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, South Africa’s Minister of Electricity, is proposing the introduction of a new bid round targeting the procurement of over 15 GW of renewable energy capacity to address the country’s looming energy shortages.
The ‘mega bid window’, according to H.E Ramokgopa, will help South Africa fast-track renewables penetration as part of the country’s plan to diversify and secure the energy mix to end load shedding – a plan which includes extending the lifespan of existing coal-fired power generators.
The ‘mega bid window’ is in line with the southern African country’s commitment to energy decarbonization, the modernization of grid operations and private sector participation to address pressing energy challenges while embracing new technologies such as battery energy storage for grid security.
In addition to the ‘mega bid window’ proposal, H.E Ramokgopa has recommended an increase in the acquisition and utilization of diesel for emergency power generation while urging stakeholders to reach financial investment decisions for projects awarded in the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producers program (REIPPP) Bid Windows 5 and 6 by the end of May 2023.
The minister’s proposal comes at a time when South Africa is expected to launch Bid Window 7 of the REIPPP, targeting the procurement of 5 GW of solar and wind capacity in May 2023.
