Eskom is seeking a 44% electricity price increase for April 2025, sparking concern among South Africans.
While price hikes are not new, this increase could impact the energy market’s growth and renewable energy adoption.
However, there is positive momentum in the sector due to recent policy changes aimed at liberalising the energy market.
The government’s Energy Action Plan and the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act have enabled private power generation and increased Independent Power Producers’ (IPPs) role, creating a diversified and competitive energy market.
This diversification aims to reduce reliance on Eskom and drive down electricity costs.
Renewable energy, which is significantly cheaper than traditional fossil fuels, offers a promising path. But the sector still faces challenges in ensuring accurate billing and streamlined energy transactions.
Local software solutions like Amptera and Energypro are designed to solve these issues, facilitating real-time transactions between producers and buyers and ensuring billing accuracy.
Already piloted by the George Local Municipality, these platforms can revolutionise how municipalities interact with IPPs.
By providing consumers a choice between different energy providers, the solutions promote competition, reduce costs, and provide greener energy options.
The success of renewable energy in SA hinges not only on policy and market reforms but also on the adoption of these innovative digital solutions that can overcome logistical challenges and unlock the full potential of a diversified energy mix.
Daniel Novitzkas
Chairman at Specno