- South Africa’s The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has welcomed the latest estimates from the Ember Electricity Data Explorer, which shows that coal accounted for 74.31% of South Africa’s electricity generation in January 2025.
- In 2022, coal accounted for roughly 84.44% of South Africa’s electricity generation.
- George also commended the announcement that government will pursue private investment for the construction of new transmission lines which will unlock further renewable energy rollout.
“This record low, which includes behind-the-meter estimates, is a positive development, and it is encouraging to see the downward trend in coal’s share of our energy mix. This reduction is a vital step toward lowering emissions and aligning with our national and international climate commitments,” the department said, adding that equally promising is the contribution of renewable energy sources.
In January, the department said solar power reached 11.28% and wind power contributed 4.94%, together accounting for 16.22% of the country’s electricity generation.
In its statement on Wednesday, the department believes that the figures highlight the growing presence of proven renewable technologies in the country’s energy system.
Dr Dion George. Image credit: South African Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment
New transmission infrastructure programme to unlock renewables
Electricity and Energy Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, on Tuesday announced that a pilot programme, the Independent Transmission Programme (ITP) will pave the way for the construction of 1 164 kilometers of new transmission lines.
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment said Ramokgopa’s statement aligns with the DFFE’s vision, by encouraging private sector involvement, which aims to address the transmission constraints that have hindered the integration of solar and wind energy, especially in the Cape province.
“This significant step forward aligns seamlessly with the vision Minister George articulated earlier this week in his landmark decision on Eskom’s emissions framework, marking a triumph for South Africa’s sustainable energy future,” the department said in a statement on Wednesday.
On Monday, George underscored the urgent need for innovative infrastructure solutions to balance energy security with environmental responsibility, subtly pointing to the expansion of transmission capacity as a key enabler for renewable energy growth.
The Minister said Ramokgopa’s announcement is a “resounding victory for the sustainable energy path we are forging.”
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
