After more than 30 years without electricity, a remote community in the mountainous Eastern Free State is now enjoying power in their homes for the first time from off-grid renewable energy.

The Santiago community is situated in an environmentally sensitive area near Verkykerskop, about 65 km from Harrismith. Due to the difficult terrain and the potential environmental impact of constructing a powerline to serve the villages in the area, household electrification had long remained out of reach. 

Lights switched on

On Saturday, May 30, the lights were switched on at some homes for the first time after the installation of a hybrid off-grid photovoltaic (solar) system.

Each house is now fitted with a carport-style photovoltaic system, an inverter, battery and a 20 Amp meter. Although the supply is off grid rather than through conventional powerlines, customers will still purchase prepaid electricity through Eskom’s standard vending system. 

“Projects like this reflect Eskom’s commitment to powering growth sustainably and ensuring that no community is left behind,” said Zetu Nciza, Eskom CentralEast Cluster’s acting Senior Manager: Asset Creation.

“Through innovative solutions such as off-grid solar systems, we can extend access to electricity in a responsible and sustainable way, improving quality of life, supporting socio-economic development and helping to build a better future for all,” Nciza added.