South Africa has a need for another 4,000 MW to 6,000 MW of generation capacity for the period ending August 2022 to eliminate the risk of scheduled power cuts. The state-owned power utility Eskom has increased its planned maintenance programme to an average 5,500 MW of capacity since September 2021. Unit 4 (720 MW) of the Medupi coal-fired power plant experienced a generator explosion in August 2021, while Kendal Unit 1 (640 MW, coal-fired) generator transformer caught fire in September 2021. Both units remain offline, putting further strain on the power system.
In addition, Eskom has unveiled its Transmission Development Plan (TDP) for the 2022-2031 period. During this planning period, 30 GW of new generation capacity is expected, mainly from renewables (solar PV and wind) in areas with limited network infrastructure. To provide for an adequate and reliable transmission system, the state-owned company plans to develop transmission infrastructure by adding approximately 8 400 km of extra-high-voltage lines and 119 transformers over the next 10 years.
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