Solar Industry Demands Urgent Action on South Africa’s New Energy Blueprint

Solar Sector Calls for Swift Implementation of National Energy Strategy

The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) is urging immediate implementation of the forthcoming Integrated Resource Plan 2025 (IRP 2025), positioning solar photovoltaic technology as the foundation of the country’s energy transformation. While the final document remains unpublished, recent ministerial insights reveal ambitious renewable energy targets that could reshape South Africa’s power landscape.

Ambitious Renewable Energy Targets

Electricity and Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa disclosed key elements of the plan on October 19, indicating a massive scaling of solar PV capacity. The strategy envisions 25,000 MW of new solar PV installations by 2039, representing one of the most significant energy infrastructure commitments in South Africa’s recent history., according to recent innovations

Complementing this centralized generation, the plan allocates 16,000 MW for distributed generation, primarily through behind-the-meter solar PV systems that allow businesses and households to generate their own electricity while remaining connected to the national grid., as covered previously, according to further reading

Transforming South Africa’s Energy Mix

The IRP 2025 outlines a dramatic shift in the country’s energy composition. Renewable energy capacity from wind and solar PV is projected to surge from approximately 12,000 MW currently to about 75,000 MW by 2039. This expansion would constitute more than half of the 105,000 MW of new generation capacity planned for addition by that date., according to market trends

Looking further ahead, the blueprint calls for approximately 5,000 MW of new renewable generation to be built annually until 2042, signaling a sustained commitment to clean energy infrastructure development.

Industry Perspective on Energy Transition

SAPVIA CEO Dr Rethabile Melamu emphasized that the plan validates market realities, stating: “Renewables, led by solar PV, are the fastest, most affordable, and cleanest path to energy security.” The association believes that focusing on renewables, storage solutions, and grid modernization will deliver optimal returns while accelerating deployment timelines.

According to SAPVIA’s analysis, aligning implementation with the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan would unlock:

• Highest return on investment in energy infrastructure
• Rapid deployment capabilities
• Broad socioeconomic benefits across communities
• Significant industrialization potential through local manufacturing

Critical Implementation Requirements

While welcoming the minister’s proposal for a “mega bid window” to scale renewable procurement, SAPVIA highlighted several essential enablers for successful implementation:

The association appealed for expedited establishment of the South African Wholesale Electricity Market to stimulate private sector participation and accelerate the development of private off-take agreements that allow businesses to purchase renewable energy directly from independent power producers.

Additional priorities include streamlining grid-connection procedures and creating investment incentives specifically tailored for renewable energy and storage technologies. These measures would support the anticipated growth in distributed generation systems.

Path Forward for Energy Security

Dr Melamu stressed the urgency of decisive action, noting: “The IRP provides the blueprint; now we must act decisively. By prioritizing renewables, cutting red tape, and enabling the private off-take market, South Africa can stabilise its grid, reduce emissions, and attract long-term investment.”

The successful implementation of IRP 2025 could position South Africa as a renewable energy leader in the region while addressing persistent electricity shortages and supporting the country’s climate commitments. The solar industry’s call to action underscores the critical window of opportunity for transforming the nation’s energy system.

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