City Power launches EV charging station as part of energy transformation
The initiative aims to support cleaner transport, improve efficiency, and expand EV infrastructure while addressing ongoing power network challenges.
Johannesburg is making progress toward cleaner energy with the rollout of phase one of an electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Southern Johannesburg, which was initiated by City Power.
This project is a key element of the organisation’s 10-point energy plan.
This plan aims to enhance service delivery, upgrade infrastructure, and encourage sustainable transportation.
The city intends to gradually switch its fleet from fuel-powered vehicles to electric ones, aided by an expanding network of charging stations.
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In a statement released on March 24, City Power called this development “a significant milestone in its journey toward energy transition.
”They noted that this initiative positions Johannesburg “as a leader in sustainable mobility and innovation within South Africa.”
The shift to electric vehicles is predicted to lower fuel costs and boost efficiency in municipal operations.
Nonetheless, the city still encounters issues like illegal connections, infrastructure damage, and electricity losses that are estimated at 29%.
Officials highlighted in their statement that “protecting vital infrastructure is crucial” for maintaining the network and attracting new investments.
This transition also emphasises the importance of skills development. The city is taking steps to train its workers in EV maintenance, battery systems, and charging stations.
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This strategy helps ensure that employees can “take part effectively in the changing energy scene,” according to the statement.
Community involvement is a vital aspect of this plan. Programs like the Youth Energy Ambassadors focus on encouraging responsible energy usage, especially among students from schools that do not charge fees.
The 2026 Energy Efficiency and Demand Side Management Schools Competition, which ends on April 30, also aims to inspire creativity among young people.
City Power intends to grow the EV charging network by adding stations at service centres, depots, major roads, public places, and township areas. The city is also looking into battery-swapping technology to boost efficiency where demand is high.
This launch marks a significant change for Johannesburg. As noted in the media announcement, this initiative represents “the start of a larger transformation” focused on creating “a cleaner, smarter, and more inclusive future for all residents.”
