Eskom has announced the launch of its first Renewable Energy Offtake Programme, a milestone in its strategy to diversify SA’s energy mix and integrate more clean power into the grid.

According to the South African Government News Agency, the programme was introduced through a request for proposal (RFP) and offers large power users the opportunity to procure 291MW of solar photovoltaic energy.

The renewable power will be supplied through long-term power purchase agreements from Eskom-owned sites.

The utility said the initiative follows a strong response from businesses during its earlier Expression of Interest process, which highlighted significant demand for long-term renewable contracts.

Eskom group chief executive Dan Marokane said the move was part of reshaping the country’s power sector.

“This is the next step in the focused execution of our strategy to integrate additional renewable energy into the grid.

“Just over a year into our turnaround strategy, we are not only focused on ending load-shedding but are also pivoting Eskom into a sustainable and competitive company while ensuring security of supply,” Marokane said.

The RFP will see successful bidders sign agreements lasting between five and 25 years, with the first project expected to go online by December 2027.

Eskom distribution acting group executive Agnes Mlambo said the programme showcased the utility’s innovation in advancing SA’s clean energy goals.

“By offering customised renewable energy offtake solutions, we are enabling our customers to transition to low-carbon operations while ensuring a secure and competitive supply,” she said.

The utility remains committed to a balanced energy mix, including coal, nuclear, gas, renewables and storage solutions.

Eskom aims to develop 2GW of construction-ready renewable capacity by 2026, scaling up to 32GW by 2040, including green hydrogen projects.