South Africa and Morocco are accelerating their renewable energy transitions, but both nations face significant challenges in integrating variable energy sources into their power grids, according to Wärtsilä Energy’s Crossroads to Net Zero report.
Published earlier this week, the report highlights the importance of balancing systems to address these challenges and advocates for the integration of renewables with energy storage and flexible power generation to ensure grid reliability and cost efficiency.
In South Africa, the government’s plan to add 17.7 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030 demonstrates a strong commitment to clean energy. However, grid stability remains a critical concern.
To address this, state utility Eskom has launched a 3 GW tender under its Gas Independent Power Producer Procurement Program, targeting ultra-flexible gas power generation. Wärtsilä’s analysis supports this strategy, emphasizing the role of flexible gas plants in stabilizing grids with high levels of renewable energy.
Morocco, meanwhile, has updated its Nationally Determined Contribution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 18.3% by 2030, with a goal of achieving 52% renewable electricity within the same timeframe. Wärtsilä recommends a system combining battery storage with flexible power plants, with grid-balancing engines comprising 60% of the required balancing capacity.
According to the report, this approach will optimize renewable energy integration, reduce fuel costs and maintain reliability, allowing Morocco to meet its emissions reduction targets through a cost-effective, low-emission pathway.
