The third annual South African Renewable Energy Grid Survey (SAREGS) has unveiled a dramatic increase in the renewable energy sector’s intent to participate in the national grid. The 2024 survey results, released on August 19 during a special webinar event, reveal that the total capacity of projects seeking grid connection has more than doubled to 133 GW from the 66 GW reported last year.

Conducted by Eskom, the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) and the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA), this year’s survey saw a substantial rise in contributions with 483 inputs received (up from just 209 in 2023).

“This survey provides us with critical insights into where grid capacity needs to be unlocked,” said Ronald Marais, Strategic Grid Planning Manager at Eskom’s National Transmission Company South Africa. “We now have detailed information on projects ready for deployment within the next three years, those awaiting approvals and those still in early development stages.”

The survey notes a significant uptick in installed capacity across various technologies including PV, wind and batteries. Installed capacity has jumped from 93 GW to 172 GW while connected capacity – projects actively seeking grid connection – has risen from 134 GW to 166 GW.

Additionally, the survey revealed notable growth in specific sectors:

• PV projects increased by 120%, reaching 76 GW.
• Battery energy storage systems grew by 77%.
• Wind projects experienced growth of over 50%, reaching more than 48 GW.

Projects scheduled for grid connection within the next three to five years have expanded from 18 GW to 60 GW. Meanwhile, slightly delayed projects now total nearly 32 GW with early-stage projects amounting to approximately 41 GW.

“The survey shows an expansion of wind energy projects in new regions such as KwaZulu-Natal and areas in the Highveld, including Mpumalanga,” said Santosh Sookgrim, Senior Technical Advisor for SAWEA.

Turning insights into action

Eskom plans to leverage the SAREGS findings to enhance future grid capacity connection assessments and transmission development plan updates.

The survey also delves into the industry’s readiness to engage in Eskom’s ancillary service arrangements and offers valuable insights into the status of wheeling off-take points.

“The survey is integral to our transmission development planning and other assessments,” Marais said. “We are also exploring collector networks and streamlining grid connections, making this a vital collaborative effort.”

Frank Spencer, SAPVIA spokesperson, said: “The positive response from all players in the renewables space reflects our industry’s strong commitment to sharing information that drives targeted and proactive transmission infrastructure development. This initiative is crucial for the renewable energy sector, offering significant insights that propel grid expansion and planning”.