Mogale City Local Municipality (MCLM) say there is a need for an alternative energy supply programme to strengthen its electricity security and improve on cost efficiency.

A statement from Given Masuku from MCLM’s Utilities Management Services said the programme intends to procure alternative energy supply from independent power producers to reduce the reliance on Eskom. It will also help to benefit from cheaper renewable energy sources or other technology that is included in the government’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).

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“A feasibility study is therefore required to understand and unlock any impediments and devise plans to attract investment in the energy space for Mogale City.”

Mogale has been collaborating with the Gauteng Infrastructure Financing Agency (GIFA) to conduct these studies and conceptualise, design, and develop project documents which will include other agreements that would be necessary to ensure that the programme becomes a success.

“The success of the programme will go a long way in contributing to the current national energy crisis resulting in the disruptive load-shedding encounters. Mogale City is engaging with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy for a permission from the Minister responsible for Energy within the Republic.”

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They also want to procure a determination notice from the minister which will designate Mogale City as the procurer and buyer of about 100MW of electricity that will be developed by private entities under the new programme.

“A program of action will soon be finalised and communicated to the public in due course. However, any further queries regarding the programme can be directed to the Energy Services Division at alten.energy@mogalecity.gov.za.”