- Eskom has installed rooftop solar power systems at five schools in Orange Farm, Gauteng, in a bid to improve learning conditions and support communities affected by frequent electricity disruptions.
- The initiative, funded through the Eskom Development Foundation (ESDEF), was officially handed over during a ceremony at Radipabi Primary School.
The beneficiary schools, Radipabi Primary, Aha-Thuto Secondary, Laus Deo Primary, Moyisela Primary and Mphethi Mahlatsi Secondary, each received a system comprising two 15kW inverters, twelve 60kWh batteries and 40 solar panels rated at 620W. The installations are designed to provide reliable, sustainable electricity, especially in areas where vandalism and infrastructure theft often interrupt supply.
According to Eskom, Orange Farm was identified as a priority area due to its high rate of electricity infrastructure damage, which regularly hampers teaching, learning and essential school operations. The new systems are expected to keep classrooms powered during outages and reduce electricity costs, allowing schools to redirect funds to learning materials, maintenance and other critical needs.
Related news: JinkoSolar launches mass production of Tiger Neo 3 as global pre-orders exceed 15GW
Eskom reported that in the 2025 financial year, ESDEF invested R146 million in social programmes, benefiting more than 1.2 million people nationwide. The solar rollout forms part of the utility’s broader effort to uplift communities and strengthen education.
“This initiative reflects Eskom’s collective commitment to the communities we serve, and our shared responsibility to support the youth,” said Acting Group Executive for Distribution, Agnes Mlambo. “When we invest in schools, we invest in our children and in South Africa’s future. We encourage the community to protect this infrastructure so it can continue to provide light, hope and opportunity for generations to come.”
The programme will be expanded nationally, funded jointly by ESDEF, the Department of Basic Education and corporate partners, including Eskom’s customers and suppliers. The utility says the Orange Farm solar handover marks the first of many such collaborations aimed at improving education and empowering communities.
Eskom affirmed its ongoing commitment to partnering with schools, communities and stakeholders to deliver sustainable energy solutions that support learning and drive long-term social development.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
Link to the list of JinkoSolar distributors in Africa HERE
