In a significant move towards sustainability and climate action, South Africa has announced a revised timeline for the shutdown of its coal-fired power plants. This decision comes as part of a strategic effort to secure approximately $2.5 billion in climate finance, as disclosed by an agency within President Cyril Ramaphosa’s office.
The proposed timetable, set to be presented to the Climate Investment Funds (CIF) in June, aims to align South Africa’s energy transition with international climate finance mechanisms. The country seeks to remain eligible for funding under the Just Energy Transition Partnership, a substantial $9.3-billion pact involving some of the world’s leading economies.
The original agreement, unveiled in 2021, stipulated that South Africa would receive financial assistance contingent upon reducing its reliance on coal, which presently constitutes a staggering four-fifths of the nation’s electricity output.
Neil Cole, a finance manager at the Project Management Unit overseeing the Just Energy Transition Partnership for South Africa, explained that the proposed adjustment to the decommissioning plan is intricately linked to ambitious emissions reduction targets. If approved, South Africa stands to gain $500 million in loans with favorable terms from the World Bank-affiliated CIF, which will in turn facilitate additional concessional loans from multilateral development groups.
The revised schedule entails the closure of Eskom’s Camden, Grootvlei, and Hendrina power plants between 2027 and 2030, representing a shift from the prior plan of closure between 2023 and 2027. Moreover, discussions are underway with Eskom to determine the closure of units at other power plants, a move aimed at meeting stringent emission reduction targets.
The proposal, which will be considered under the CIF’s Accelerating Coal Transition Investment Program, underscores South Africa’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions, a pivotal step in combating global warming. Cole emphasized the comprehensive nature of the shutdown, affirming that closed units would not be reinstated for production.
In terms of financing, a portion of the funds will be allocated to Eskom for the decommissioning of coal plants and their repurposing for renewable energy production. Additionally, the National Treasury is poised to borrow funds to foster alternative employment and economic activities in coal-dependent communities, further enhancing the transition’s inclusivity.
Addressing concerns raised by government ministers and labor unions regarding potential job losses and energy shortages, the German Development Ministry reiterated the pact’s objective: to fortify the energy sector, ensuring compliance with emissions targets while facilitating the phasing out of coal-fired power plants.
While acknowledging the progress made in easing electricity cuts and advancing renewable energy adoption, stakeholders remain vigilant about the transition’s impact on job security and energy stability. Nevertheless, the recalibrated timeline for coal plant shutdowns underscores South Africa’s steadfast commitment to a sustainable energy future, bolstered by international cooperation and climate finance mechanisms.
