South Africa and EDF International signed agreements on 27 November 2024 under the Independent Power Purchase Programme for battery energy storage to secure energy supplies and move towards renewable energy sources, according to a press release published by the subsidiary of the French world leader in the electricity industry.
Indeed, these were signed by the South African Ministry of Electricity and EDF International as well as other companies operating in the field of energy and green energy, namely: Mulilo, Gibb-Crede, Pele Green Energy, as well as a community fund, it was indicated.
Regarding two battery energy storage (BESS) projects developed by EDF International and its partners in the Northern Cape province, they aim to improve energy security, reduce grid saturation, maximise the integration of renewable resources and achieve a total storage capacity of 360 MW/1440 at the national grid level, it was specified.
According to the Ministry of Electricity, the projects, which will cost 2.27 million euros, will generate an investment of around 4.7 billion euros, knowing that their execution will not exceed 24 months and that the storage capacity should be operational in November 2026.
With a lifespan of 15 years, the projects will touch on several areas including: skills development, supplier support, scholarships for black students, business development and socio-economic development initiatives.
According to the same source, the use of battery energy storage system (BESS) technology contributes positively to the operation of the grid while allowing energy to be stored during periods of low electricity demand and then released when needed. Thus, this technology will offer additional services to the system operator and promote a more efficient integration of renewable energies into the grid.
In February 2023, the South African government declared a national disaster due to the catastrophic impact of power outages on the country’s economy. In May 2023, this measure restricting electricity supply was reversed.
