Eskom, AFD Partner on Clean Energy Project

Key Figures & Findings: Eskom, South Africa's main power utility, and  Agence Française de Développement (AFD), France's public development bank, recently signed a R125 million ($8.2 million) grant agreement aimed at advancing South Africa’s renewable energy storage through Eskom's Tubatse Pumped Storage System (PSS) in Limpopo. This partnership supports the country’s Infrastructure Programme priorities, enhancing energy storage to integrate renewable sources like wind and solar. Eskom’s Group Chief Executive, Dan Marokane, emphasized Tubatse’s role in stabilizing the grid, enabling renewable energy integration for a low-carbon economy.

Statistics & Insights: The Tubatse PSS is projected to become operational between 2025 and 2033, offering a substantial energy storage capacity of 1.5 GW and a 21 GWh storage potential.

Future Implications: If implemented as planned, the Tubatse PSS could significantly stabilize South Africa’s grid by 2033, supporting Eskom’s long-term goals for energy diversification.

Source: Eskom and AFD