Tag: Electricity

Namibia to build largest solar plant with Chinese partners

As Southern Africa grapples with increasing energy demands and a growing need for sustainability, several nations are turning to innovative power solutions to enhance energy independence. Namibia, in particular, is taking significant steps to reduce its reliance on energy imports by boosting local capacity through renewable energy projects.

With neighbouring countries like Botswana and Ghana investing in solar and nuclear power, the region is on the cusp of a transformative shift in its energy landscape. This article explores the critical developments in Namibia’s energy sector and the broader efforts across Southern Africa to secure a sustainable energy future.

Read also: Huawei advances Nigeria’s energy sector with new CI solution and Inverter

Namibia’s growing energy demands and power independence

The plant will assist economic growth, stabilise potential rises in power tariffs, boost Namibia’s energy independence, and advance environmental sustainability.

Namibia has depended on power imports from nations like Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa (Eskom). Therefore, this development is vital. According to reports, its power purchase arrangement with Eskom would run out in 2025.

Research states that Namibia’s annual total power demand is forecast to be 600 MW, with annual growth predicted to be 5%. The nation’s generating capacity, however, is just about 500 MW.

Thanks to the new facility, Namibia will have 100 MW more installed electricity capacity.

Financing and international collaboration in Energy projects

NamPower will contribute the remaining cash from its financial sheet, with the German development bank KfW funding 80% of the N$1.4 billion ($78.33 million) project.

A consortium of Chinese firms led by China Harbour Engineering Co. negotiated an agreement in August 2024 to construct a 100 MW solar power in Botswana, another country in Southern Africa. The facility, which will cost $78.3 million, is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2026. It will be the second utility-scale renewable energy facility in the nation.

Furthermore, the contractor selection process for Ghana’s first nuclear power station, scheduled for construction by December 2024, began in May 2024. China National Nuclear Corporation was one of the contractors bidding on the project.

Read also: itel’s affordable solar power enters Nigeria’s energy market

South Africa’s Nuclear Energy Expansion

About 2,500 megawatts (MW) of new electricity are required in South Africa, which runs the continent’s only nuclear power station, Koeberg. Eskom of South Africa was granted authorisation in July 2024 to operate one of its two units for 20 years until July 2044.

The extension of Koeberg Unit 1’s operating license until 2044 secures a vital source of clean, reliable electricity for South Africa. However, ongoing safety improvements and the pending decision on Unit 2’s extension highlight the need for continued vigilance and public engagement as the country navigates its energy future.

September 13, 2024
Egypt increases its electricity exports to Asia

Egypt increasingly claims to be a vital participant in the world energy scene. With its most recent action to increase electricity exports to Asia, the nation is showing a calculated change that is strengthening its economy and positioning itself as a significant energy hub between Africa, Europe, and Asia.

This development indicates Egypt’s increasing capacity for producing electricity, supported by large expenditures in infrastructure and renewable energy sources.

Read also: Adani Energy’s $900m Kenya power transmission line gets approval

How Egypt is increasing capacity for energy generation

Egypt has dramatically advanced in recent years in terms of its capacity for producing energy. The nation has started extensive renewable energy initiatives among the most significant solar projects worldwide, including the Benban Solar Park.

These projects have considerably raised Egypt’s capacity for producing power, enabling it to meet and surpass domestic needs. Initially concentrating on neighbouring African countries and extending its reach into Asia, Egypt’s surplus electricity has opened the path to becoming an energy exporter.

Egypt’s deliberate intention to increase its electricity exports to Asia is consistent with its more extensive energy and economic policies. Asia’s rapidly expanding economy and increasing energy requirements indicate that Egypt’s power market will be prosperous. By accessing this market, Egypt is establishing more intimate political and commercial relationships with Asian nations and diversifying its income sources. This action may lead to the development of additional collaborative initiatives in infrastructure construction, technological transfer, and energy generation.

Egypt will benefit economically from the increase in electricity exports to Asia. The income from these exports will be much-needed money that can be reinvested into other vital areas of the economy, and the nation’s energy infrastructure will be significantly enhanced.

Egypt also exports electricity generated from renewable sources to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions globally. This enhances Egypt’s reputation internationally and positions it as a pioneer in applying sustainable energy solutions.

Read also: Hexing to use tech to close metering gap

The Geopolitical Significance of Egypt’s Electricity Expansion

Apart from the environmental and financial gains, Egypt’s entry into the Asian electricity market has excellent geopolitical importance. Egypt is increasing its impact on world energy affairs by proving itself a consistent energy source for Asia. As Egypt keeps positioning itself as a significant energy centre linking several continents, this action will probably improve Egypt’s geopolitical position in Asia and its connections with Europe and Africa.

Egypt’s ambitious energy plan and increasing worldwide influence are demonstrated by its decision to increase its electricity exports to Asia. Egypt is benefiting economically and positioning itself as a significant participant in the worldwide drive for sustainable energy by harnessing its higher capacity for energy production and emphasising renewable energy sources.

With far-reaching geopolitical, environmental, and economic ramifications, Egypt’s expansion into Asia marks a turning point on its path to becoming a top energy exporter.

August 12, 2024
10 African nations ranked by least expensive power per kWh

Global socioeconomic development, industrial expansion, and people’s daily ability to live comfortably depend on electricity. In Africa, having inexpensive, dependable power is more than just a need. It serves as a valuable barometer of economic development, a privilege index, and an indication of sound governance.

The truth is that many African nations are still struggling to figure out how to produce and supply power to their people economically and efficiently. About 80 million people in sub-Saharan Africa do not have access to electricity, according to the International Energy Agency. More than half of the people in the area are represented by this.

The problems associated with producing and distributing electricity in Africa are complex. The main problems plaguing the ecosystem are outdated technologies, dependence on non-renewable energy, high rates of electricity theft, estimated billing, a worsening financial crisis in the power sector, and inadequate infrastructure.

Barriers to developing a robust and reliable power sector include political insecurity, economic constraints, and governance issues.

The cost of electricity is very high, and the supply is inconsistent, even in areas where residents have access to it. In Nigeria, for example, the cost of power increased by more than 168%; as of January 2023, the cost of a kWh was N63 ($0.08), up from N23.5 ($0.03) in 2015.

Read also: Nigeria, Germany sign agreement for presidential power Initiative

An examination of 1 kWh of electricity’s cost

Analysing the price of electricity, expressed explicitly in kilowatt-hours (kWh), sheds light on its accessibility and affordability. There are observable trends, even though it is difficult to obtain complete and current data on electricity prices throughout Africa because of different tariffs, subsidies, and market dynamics.

The cost of electricity is comparatively higher in many African nations than in other parts of the world. Factors such as inadequate infrastructure, reliance on imported fuel for power generation and inefficient systems contribute to elevated tariffs, burdening consumers and hindering economic growth.

African countries use a diverse range of energy resources, including oil, gas, coal, hydro, and solar power. Hence, availability and affordability vary widely across the continent.

In this article, we list the top 10 African countries with the cheapest cost of electricity per 1 kWh as of December 2022, according to Statista.

Sudan

Sudan, situated in North East Africa, has developed one of the most extensive power systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. The country predominantly relies on two primary sources of energy: hydroelectricity and thermal generation.

With a current capacity of about 3.5 gigawatts, Sudan divides its energy generation nearly equally, with each category contributing approximately 50% to the total capacity. The hydroelectric power is harnessed from the Nile River through various dams, showcasing the nation’s utilization of its natural resources for energy production.

Additionally, Sudan’s thermal power stations play a pivotal role in catering to the country’s energy demands, showcasing a diversified approach to power generation. Currently, the country has one of the lowest household electricity prices in the continent, at just $0.001 per kilowatt-hour

Ethiopia

Ethiopia, positioned as the Horn of Africa, boasts of an evolving power generation infrastructure. The country has a rich history in energy, dating back to 1889 when electricity was introduced to the imperial palace.

The nation harnesses the potential of its numerous rivers, including the Blue Nile and the Omo River, to generate electricity through various hydroelectric dams. With an installed capacity of 11,146,860 megawatt-hours as of 2016, Ethiopia’s energy landscape emphasises the significance of hydropower in meeting its electricity demands.

Additionally, the country has been exploring other renewable sources, such as wind and solar, to diversify its energy mix, indicating a forward-looking approach toward sustainable energy solutions.

With an electricity generation capacity exceeding annual consumption needs, Ethiopia charges households $0.01 per kilowatt-hour, leveraging historical advancements in electricity since its introduction in 1889.

Libya

Libya, situated in North Africa, has a noteworthy electricity generation setup. As of 2016, the country generated a substantial amount of electricity, precisely 34,244,680 megawatt-hours, effectively exceeding its annual consumption requirements.

Libya’s power generation is mainly from non-renewable sources, particularly fossil fuels like oil and gas, which play a pivotal role in meeting the nation’s energy needs.

This reliance on traditional fossil fuel sources is a characteristic feature of Libya’s energy landscape, and despite having an abundance of sunlight, solar energy hasn’t been as extensively integrated into the national grid.

The country’s electricity infrastructure primarily revolves around thermal power plants, utilising its rich oil and gas reserves to fuel its energy production. Offering household electricity at a similar cost of $0.001 per kilowatt-hour, Libya generates substantial electricity, covering more than its annual consumption needs.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s power generation primarily relies on hydropower and coal-fired generators. The nation has one central hydropower plant and four coal-fired generators, collectively contributing to a total combined capacity of 2,240 megawatts (MW).

However, despite these power generation assets, only around 79.9% of Zimbabwe’s population has access to electricity, highlighting some challenges in ensuring universal electricity access.

The country’s infrastructure mix is a blend of renewable and non-renewable sources, but improvements in expanding access and diversifying the energy mix remain pivotal for Zimbabwe’s energy security and socio-economic development.

Despite limited access to electricity for its population, Zimbabwe maintains a competitive rate of $0.01 per kilowatt-hour.

Angola

Angola, a major oil-exporting country and a member of OPEC, possesses a diverse energy mix. Its installed capacity is estimated at 5.6 gigawatts (GW), of which 4.5 GW is available.

Approximately 68% of Angola’s energy comes from hydropower sources, with another 31.3% sourced from various fossil fuels and a minor percentage (0.7%) derived from a hybrid of solar and fossil fuels. Despite its significant energy potential, Angola faces challenges in fully harnessing its energy resources to meet the demands of its population and industrial sector.

The country aims to expand and modernise its energy infrastructure to enhance electricity access and support economic growth. A significant oil exporter, Angola’s households pay $0.03 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, utilizing a diverse energy mix primarily comprising hydropower.

Zambia

Located in southern Africa, Zambia has significant hydropower resources. Households pay $0.03 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, which is relatively low compared to other African countries.

Its electricity generation primarily relies on hydropower, drawing from the abundant water resources of the Zambezi River and its tributaries. The nation boasts one of Africa’s largest hydropower stations, the Kariba Dam, which contributes significantly to its energy grid.

Additionally, the country operates several smaller hydropower plants and has initiated plans to diversify its energy sources by investing in solar, wind, and thermal power projects. Despite these efforts, Zambia often faces challenges in maintaining a consistent power supply due to a combination of factors, including inadequate infrastructure, fluctuating water levels affecting hydropower, and insufficient investment in alternative energy sources.

Nigeria

Nigeria is the largest economy in Africa and has significant energy resources, including oil and gas. However, the country has been facing significant challenges in the electricity sector, including power outages and low electrification rates in rural areas.

Nigerian households pay $0.03 per kilowatt-hour for electricity, which is relatively low compared to other African countries. The country generates most of its electricity from gas and hydropower.

Egypt

Egypt is the most populous country in North Africa and has a well-developed electricity sector. The average cost of 1 kWh of electricity in Egypt is $0.03, one of the lowest in Africa and the same as Nigeria. The country generates most of its electricity from natural gas, followed by oil and hydropower.

The country currently generates electricity well beyond its annual consumption needs.

Algeria

Algeria is the largest country in Africa and has significant energy resources, including oil and gas. The average cost of 1 kWh of electricity in Algeria is $0.04, which is also one of the lowest in Africa.

Algeria’s electricity generation primarily relies on natural gas and oil, which account for a significant portion of the country’s energy mix. The nation possesses substantial reserves of natural gas and oil, making them readily available sources for power generation. Hydroelectric power also contributes to the electricity grid but to a lesser extent than fossil fuels.

Ghana

Ghana’s electricity generation combines hydroelectricity, thermal, and renewable energy sources. The Akosombo Dam, situated on the Volta River, is a primary hydroelectric power plant that supplies a substantial portion of Ghana’s electricity.

Other hydroelectric dams, including Bui and Kpong, contribute to the country’s power generation. Thermal plants, often powered by oil, gas, or diesel, complement the energy mix, providing electricity during periods of low water levels or high demand. Ghana has also made strides in renewable energy, particularly with solar and wind power projects, aiming to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependency on traditional fossil fuels.

Despite efforts to expand its energy infrastructure, challenges such as irregular power supply due to insufficient capacity and funding constraints persist in Ghana’s energy sector. With hydro and thermal generation as primary sources, Ghana exports power to neighboring nations but charges households $0.07 per kilowatt-hour due to infrastructure challenges.

Nigeria’s Zungeru power plant ready to generate 700MW

An overview of African electricity costs

The cost-effectiveness of electricity varies amongst African countries based on infrastructure, energy sources, and regulatory frameworks. Some countries struggle to give their citizens access to reasonably priced electricity, while others offer electricity at low prices.

These discrepancies highlight the urgent need for infrastructure improvements, sustainable energy solutions, and sensible legislation to guarantee affordable and accessible electricity for everyone on the continent.

The top 10 African nations with the lowest electricity costs per kWh are noteworthy for having abundant energy resources and significant recent investments in renewable energy.

These nations can lead Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy and a sustainable energy future.

December 6, 2023
Access to electricity in Africa is better than expected

Recent data are casting fresh light on the access to electricity in Africa, revealing that the number of people who do not have access to electricity may be far lower than the figures that have been suggested recently.

Recent research indicates that an increasing number of households and companies are being powered by off-grid alternatives, which is a factor that was not taken into consideration in previous estimations.

According to the World Energy Outlook 2023, there has been a notable increase in the number of households and commercial establishments who want to satisfy their energy requirements by using solar power.

Read also: Stakeholder address Africa’s electricity gap at 10th Nigeria Energy Conference

Impact of Solar Home Systems

The significant rise in sales of solar home systems, which provide power to homeowners that are not linked to electric grids, helped to somewhat offset this reversion. According to a portion of the prognosis, sales of these systems skyrocketed over the levels that existed before to the pandemic in the previous year, with the high increase in West and East Africa.

During the crisis, Nigeria’s population that did not have access to electricity continued to decrease, which was made possible by the rising sales of solar residential systems.

“One of the reasons that number seems to have been unchanged for some while now is that a lot of work is being done to expand access and increasingly by non-traditional grid buildouts,” the news platform Semafor noted in a recent report. “This is one of the reasons that the number seems to have remained unchanged for some time”.

Traditional methods of assessing access to electricity have mostly concentrated on the growth of national power networks. These methods have neglected to take into account the emergence of pay-as-you-go (PAYG) solutions and residential solar energy, the numbers of which are difficult to quantify.

The sun is quickly being acknowledged as the one resource that is available to all people living in Africa.In 2022, sales of solar home systems reached all-time highs, with the majority of these systems being imported from China.

The growth in the number of people who had access to electricity in Africa during the same year was mostly attributable to these systems. The fact that solar power is able to provide energy to more than eight percent of homes in sub-Saharan Africa that have access to it is another factor that highlights the relevance of solar power.

The commercial and industrial sector of the solar market had a year-on-year rise of 61.5% in the previous year, as stated in the Africa Solar Outlook 2023 study published by the Africa Solar Industry Association (AFSIA).

This is a year-on-year increase of 14% compared to the 833 MW of solar energy that was added to the grid in 2021. In terms of significant projects, around 949 MW of extra solar energy was deployed throughout the continent in 2022.

Angola had the highest number of installations in 2022, with a total of 284 megawatts. Angola, South Africa (111.8 MW), Egypt (80 MW), Ghana (71.3 MW), and Mozambique (41.9 MW) round up the top five countries in terms of power generation.

According to the paper, “Africa is now home to more than 10 GW of solar projects that have been identified.”

Nigeria turns to gas, electricity and solar energy for economic survival

Solar Market Growth

On the other hand, projections from the state-owned utility Eskom suggest that South Africa alone built more than one thousand megawatts (MW) of private solar capacity in only two months in 2023, as reported by the news site Semafor.

The rise in solar installations up to June was more than what was added in the six months before to that, which highlights not just South Africa’s but also the continent’s potential for solar power. As a result of an increase in the number of power outages throughout the national grid, the installations were carried out.

“What you’re seeing in these numbers is households and the private sector taking matters into their own hands,” Wikus Kruger, head of the Power Futures Lab at the University of Cape Town, said in an interview with Semafor. Rather than being driven by government policy in and of itself, it is being driven by desperation.

The data from Chinese customs indicates that South Africa has imported a substantial amount of solar panels, with a total of over 5 gigawatts (or 1.1 billion dollars) since January 2022, with 3.7 gigawatts in 2023 alone.

There have been a few “hot spots” in Africa that have traditionally been the primary drivers of solar installation capacity. These “hot spots” include South Africa, Morocco, and Egypt. However, more nations are increasingly embracing solar programs.

Africa is seeing a change in the availability of energy as a result of the move towards decentralised, non-grid alternatives such as solar home systems and pay-as-you-go models.

When compared to typical grid expansions, these technologies have not only been shown to be more flexible to the varied and often distant terrain of the continent, but they also provide a deployment that is both more cost-effective and more speedy.

Through the Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) model, in particular, solar energy is becoming more financially accessible to a greater number of families. This is because it enables consumers to pay for their energy use in manageable and modest installments. In the midst of the company’s expansion throughout Africa, the Kenyan pay-as-you-go (PAYG) provider M-KOPA just opened in Soweto.

The promise of these new techniques is being shown by the fact that countries like as Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Ghana, and Senegal are getting closer and closer to their goals of providing universal access.

December 4, 2023
Eskom secures $12.5 billion for power delivery, grid expansion

South African Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa reveals Eskom’s plan to utilize $12.5 billion in multilateral loans to enhance power delivery and address transmission constraints hindering the renewable energy transition.

Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd. is set to deploy a portion of the $12.5 billion multilateral loans to address overloaded grids hindering the transition to renewable energy sources, according to South African Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. The move aims to expand the nation’s transmission grid, a crucial step in eliminating power cuts and facilitating the connection of renewable projects.

Read also: Eskom’s Kusile power station adds 800 megawatts to South Africa’s power grid

Boosting Transmission Grid for Renewable Integration

Ramokgopa emphasizes the significance of expanding the transmission grid, stating that it will play a key role in preventing power cuts and facilitating the integration of renewable energy projects. He notes that the transmission capacity in certain areas has been exhausted, hindering the connection of renewable energy projects. The allocated funds will be instrumental in overcoming these challenges.

South Africa faces the need for an estimated 390 billion rand ($21.3 billion) to strengthen its transmission capacity. The funds will be directed towards connecting renewable energy projects in specific regions, including the northern, eastern, and western Cape, to the national grid. This financial injection is deemed essential for achieving a resilient and efficient power infrastructure.

Eskom’s performance has witnessed a steady decline in recent years, prompting President Cyril Ramaphosa to declare an energy crisis. This crisis has necessitated increased purchases of power from private producers and the appointment of an electricity minister, with Kgosientsho Ramokgopa taking on the role in March. The government’s response underscores the urgency of addressing the challenges facing Eskom.

Transmission constraints have posed challenges for many renewable energy firms, leading them to include options for raising funds for grid expansion in their business models. Responding to queries from Bloomberg, Ramokgopa acknowledges the insatiable appetite for grid expansion and highlights the importance of overcoming these constraints to facilitate the growth of the renewable energy sector.

The deployment of the $12.5 billion in loans reflects a holistic approach to addressing South Africa’s energy challenges. By focusing on transmission grid expansion, Eskom aims to create a conducive environment for renewable energy projects to thrive. The financial commitment demonstrates a strategic initiative to overcome existing limitations and pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure.

As Eskom secures multilateral loans to bolster the transmission grid, South Africa takes a significant step toward a more sustainable and renewable energy future. The investment in transmission capacity is a critical enabler for connecting renewable projects and alleviating power cuts. The government’s proactive measures and financial commitments underscore a commitment to overcoming energy challenges and fostering a resilient energy landscape for the nation.

South Africa Teens Invent First Fully Solar-Powered Train

Powering South Africa’s Energy Landscape

Eskom, short for Electricity Supply Commission, stands as a pivotal entity in South Africa’s energy sector, playing a central role in the generation and distribution of electric power. As a government-owned company, Eskom holds the distinction of being the primary supplier of electricity in South Africa, contributing significantly to the nation’s power infrastructure.

The company’s significance is underscored by its role as the predominant supplier of electric power in South Africa. The company is responsible for producing and distributing nearly all the electricity consumed in the country. Its reach extends beyond national borders, as it stands as the largest electricity provider across the entire African continent, contributing to almost half of the electricity used continent-wide.

The backbone of Eskom’s electricity generation lies in power plants that predominantly utilize coal as their energy source. These coal-fired power plants form a substantial part of Eskom’s diverse energy generation portfolio. In addition to coal, Eskom operates power plants powered by gas, nuclear energy, and hydroelectric sources. This diversified approach ensures a mix of energy sources, contributing to the stability and reliability of South Africa’s power supply.

November 21, 2023
Nigeria’s Zungeru power plant ready to generate 700MW

Nigeria’s second-largest hydroelectricity power station, Zungeru power plant, is prepared to be fully operational, with a capacity of 700 megawatts.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, during a media parley with Power Correspondents in Abuja, FCT. Adelabu highlighted the significance of the Zungeru Power Plant, stating that it would contribute substantially to Nigeria’s power generation capacity.

Read also: Elumelu calls for gas, power sector reforms at NBA conference

Investigation into DisCo Licence Extensions

In addition to the update on the Zungeru Power Plant, Minister Adelabu revealed that he has initiated an investigation into the extension of licences for Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos). The licences, originally granted for ten years from 2013 to 2023, were extended by an additional five years. The Minister expressed concerns about the extension and emphasised the need to review its correctness.

Privatisation vs. Commercialization of Power Sector

Minister Adelabu expressed his scepticism about the privatisation of power sector assets, suggesting that commercialization might have been a more suitable approach. He noted the significant financial investment required for the power sector and the challenges the private sector may face in committing to such investments with uncertain long-term returns.

Potential Review of DisCo Structures

The Minister hinted at the possibility of reviewing the structures of Electricity Distribution Companies, considering the vast areas of coverage that might be challenging for effective management. Streamlining the areas of coverage could be a potential solution to enhance operational efficiency.

Cost Reflective Tariffs and Government Subsidies

Regarding cost reflective tariffs, Minister Adelabu stated that the time is not yet right for the implementation of such tariffs. He acknowledged that tariffs could have been increased earlier, but President Ahmed Bola Tinubu did not approve of it. The government continues to subsidise tariffs until there is convincing evidence of incremental power supply.

Approach to Power Sector Challengesl

Minister Adelabu shared insights into his approach to addressing challenges in the power sector. He highlighted the need for a bottom-up approach, as opposed to previous top-down approaches. He lamented the stagnation of Nigeria’s power generation at around 4,000MW over the years and emphasised the importance of tackling the issues from the grassroots.

Power Sector Retreat and Roadmap

To address the challenges comprehensively, the Minister announced plans to organise a Power Sector Retreat scheduled between December 12th and 14th, 2023. The retreat aims to develop a workable roadmap for the power sector, outlining strategic plans and initiatives to enhance its performance.

Husk Power installs 8 Solar Microgrids across Nigeria

State Investment Opportunities in Power Distribution

Minister Adelabu encouraged states to take advantage of the reformed power sector Act by investing in Distribution Companies within their respective regions. He suggested utilising existing power lines instead of creating entirely new power infrastructures, emphasising the importance of optimising resources.

Minister Adebayo Adelabu provided updates on the operational readiness of the Zungeru Power Plant, the investigation into DisCo licence extensions, and the government’s approach to addressing challenges in the power sector. The emphasis on collaboration, bottom-up strategies, and the upcoming Power Sector Retreat reflects the commitment to revitalising Nigeria’s power sector for sustained growth and development.

November 14, 2023
South Africa’s new electricity bill addresses load shedding

South Africa initially experienced load shedding in 2007, but few expected it to become a daily occurrence. Along with extended power outages, people have had higher energy rates. By May 2023, the country has had more load-shedding than in 2022.

Eskom, the company in South Africa that makes, sends, and distributes electricity, has warned that there will be more load-shedding this year. Aside from the long hours of darkness, it’s hard for businesses to survive. Last year, load shedding cost the biggest African telecom company, MTN, R695 million ($38 million) in profits.

Several governments have tried to solve the energy problem, but corruption and sabotage have made it impossible for them to do so. There may be hope in the meantime.

In South Africa, a bill to change the Electricity Regulation Act (ERA) was presented. Even though lawmakers haven’t started talking about this bill, its coming gives everyone hope.

South Africa’s long-term power solution is based on this rule. The goal of the law is, among other things, to open up the sole-buyer energy market. By letting other companies work in its electricity business, the country hopes to get better.

Read also: BLUETTI offers solution for free and sufficient electricity

The most important part of the bill is to fix load shedding

As was already said, the goal of the amendment bill is to make the energy market in the country more competitive. The multi-market structure it suggests will comprise three parts: market transactions, physical bilateral transactions, and regulated transactions.

The competitive market model will also create a Transmission System Operator. TSO will supervise a competitive market. The TSO will plan transmission expansion based on power demand and transmission planning and management.

The TSO amendment bill proposes a central procurement agency. If needed, it will buy legacy power purchase contracts and extra energy to maintain system integrity.

The bill gives NERSA more authority. Section 30 allows NERSA to arbitrate and resolve licensee-customer issues. After fixing or authorizing tariffs, Section 14(d) no longer must publish its methodology.

Even though the bill was significant to citizens, companies, and the economy, it took a long time to get to Parliament. Busi Mavuso said that a management mistake was to blame for that. She says the Department of Mineral Resources did not present the bill correctly.

Mavuso also said that the lawmakers did not mention the mistake earlier. These things made her think neither party cared much about fixing the country’s energy problem. One thing that might be important to remember is that before the bill got to Parliament, the legislative arm’s programme was already complete. So, it’s doubtful that the bill will be immediately paid.

South Africa’s Eskom to pay citizens for saving electricity

“The mistake with the ERA Bill is frustrating mostly because it didn’t have to happen. It is a mistake bureaucrats make, not because changing policy is hard. But it has shown that some parts of the government are not serious about making the necessary changes,” Mavuso said.

This makes people and companies even more uncertain. The load cutting has cost them so much. Since more blackouts are expected in the coming days, South African leaders should do what they must to fix the problem.

August 27, 2023
BLUETTI offers solution for free and sufficient electricity

Owing to Nigeria’s insufficient power supply, BLUETTI is offering efficient and dependable power solutions to households and businesses.

Why Nigeria needs intervention

In the present day, around 86 percent of Nigeria’s massive population of over 200 million people do not have access to electrical power. According to the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS), even 5.96 million of the people in Nigeria who do have access to electricity are being overcharged by the country’s electrical distribution firms.

BLUETTI, a pioneering firm in the field of renewable energy storage, provides efficient solutions to assist in addressing Nigeria’s power shortage in the midst of this ongoing energy issue. The solar power stations provided by BLUETTI allow Nigerians to take advantage of the sun’s free energy and provide reliable backups in the event that the electricity goes out.

Read also: Startup Shamsina supports solar water heater enterprise in Egypt

Features of BLUETTI products

Let’s get down to the nitty gritty of these products and figure out how they can actually make a difference in our lives.

Scalable Home Backup Power Provided by AC200MAX+B230

The AC200MAX is BLUETTI’s top-of-the-line model, and it boasts an impressively high battery capacity of 2,048Wh as well as a robust AC output of 2,200W (4,800W surge). During power outages, the 16-outlet power station ensures that the majority of important electronics and domestic appliances continue to receive uninterrupted power. This includes refrigerators, air conditioners, and electric ovens.

The expandability of the AC200MAX is a characteristic that deserves special mention. It gives you the ability to raise the overall capacity all the way up to 6,144Wh by adding two B230 battery units that each have a capacity of 2,048Wh. A BLUETTI AC200MAX unit is capable of supplying electricity to a 150-watt refrigerator for ten hours, a 10-watt light bulb for more than 150 hours, and a 5000-BTU air conditioner for approximately one to four hours. You can prolong the duration of the power supply to these gadgets by as much as two or even three times by adding additional B230 battery units.

The AC200MAX provides seven different ways to charge the battery, each of which can be used independently or in tandem to achieve flexible and rapid recharging. It takes around 5 to 6 hours to fully charge the AC200MAX when using an AC adapter at 500W, however the charging time might be lowered to less than 3 hours when combining 900W of solar power with AC charging for a maximum of 1,400W dual input. For example, this information is based on using an AC adapter at 500W.

Powerhouse for Prolonged Power Outages, the EP500Pro

The EP500Pro features a gigantic 5,100Wh capacity and an amazing 3,000W output from its built-in battery. It is able to supply energy to the whole house, which ensures that the lights are on, that the food in the fridge stays fresh, and that all of the necessary appliances are functioning properly. With its sensitive UPS capabilities, it can easily switch over within 20 milliseconds in the event that there is a power outage, ensuring that there is continuous power supply at all times.

The BLUETTI EP500Pro’s 15 power outlets allow it to manage several devices at the same time, making it an ideal choice for businesses. It is capable of simultaneously charging a number of different gadgets. For example, it is capable of powering a smart TV that consumes 100 watts for around 50 hours, a space heater that consumes 500 watts for 8.6 hours, and a microwave that consumes 1,000 watts for 4.3 hours. The EP500Pro, despite its weight, has four strong wheels at the bottom, which makes it easy to move and position anywhere you need power.

The EP500Pro is powered by lithium iron phosphate batteries made by LifePO4 that are known for their safety and dependability. These batteries have the ability to produce at least 3,500 life cycles before losing 80% of their initial capacity. This is roughly comparable to ten years of use assuming one discharge each day throughout that time. Additionally, the EP500Pro comes with a smart Battery Management System (BMS) that safeguards against overcharging and ensures that the battery is used in the most effective manner possible, excessively charging and discharging in order to have a calm mind.

EB3A/EB70 – Portable Emergency Power Source

Both the EB3A and the EB70 are alternatives for portable power solutions that are both powerful and compact, making them ideal for use in case of an emergency.

The BLUETTI EB3A has a capacity of 268Wh and can output 600W of power, making it suitable for powering electronics and other tiny equipment. It weighs only 4.6kg. The EB3A comes equipped with nine different types of plugs and has the capacity to supply power to a 100W laptop for approximately 3.5 hours, a 60W mini refrigerator for approximately 3.6 hours, and a 5W light for approximately 30 hours. The EB3A, despite its little size, has the potential to function as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with a responsive UPS capability, which provides power to important loads in the event of sudden power disruptions.

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The BLUETTI EB3A may be charged using a variety of different methods, including AC power, solar panels, a generator, or even an automobile. Even a dual charge of 430W is supported, and the device may be fully recharged in just under two hours. Even more impressive is the EB3A’s capacity for remote monitoring and control through the use of a specialised BLUETTI app installed on the user’s mobile device.

Even though it only weighs 9.7kg, the EB70 has a higher capacity than its predecessor, measuring 716Wh. During a power outage, it would be able to charge a variety of devices, both vital and mid-range, thanks to its twelve outlets and one thousand watts of power. It would be possible to keep a 12W bulb on for 50 hours, a 400W juicer on for 1.5 hours, and a WIFI router on for 65 hours, not to mention the additional runtime that could be achieved with smaller devices such as phones, computers, and speakers.

The EB70 is compatible with a variety of charging sources, such as standard wall outlets, solar panels, and even automobiles. It minimises downtime by charging quickly, in less than five hours, whether it is paired with an adapter or solar panels that provide an input of 200W. The EB70 is not an exception to the rule; practically all of BLUETTI’s power stations are equipped with a user-friendly LCD that allows for improved monitoring and management of the battery storage.

August 25, 2023
eFactory simplifies electricity payments in Nigeria

Online electricity payments in Nigeria are made simple through the eFactory platform. The business has chosen to use technology to address a fundamental power management problem because Nigeria’s electricity supply and payments are beset by several challenges.

As a tech company, it gives electric utility providers and their customers a platform that makes it easier to track, manage, and distribute electricity. People can buy tokens for their prepaid and postpaid electricity meters and pay for them right away using the web and mobile apps.

For a Nigerian electricity distribution firm, eFactory developed a unique payment and token management system. Through the web app, the distribution company could receive payments and distribute tokens. Over time, the program lowered the disco’s overhead and simplified client electric meter recharges.

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Metering and the eFactory App

eFactory’s Android and iOS software lets customers buy tokens for meters from up to nine power distribution firms, simplifying power management in Nigeria.

“Leveraging our experience, we created the eFactory app. Customers bought, dispensed, and managed their electricity via the eFactory App.”

“Our customers can also track their usage and purchase histories, request smart meters, recharge their smart electricity meters over the air, and more.”

The company currently services nine Nigerian electricity distribution companies. This allows users to buy power tokens for prepaid and postpaid meters of the following companies: AEDC, EKEDC, Ikeja Electric, IBEDC, Kaduna Electric, Jos Electric (JED), PHED, KEDC, and EEDC.

The eFactory metering system helps estate management and facility managers assign smart power meters to inhabitants, control utility usage, generate electricity tokens, and monitor consumption with each building’s electricity meter.

With a prepaid system, the solution handles all electricity money recovery. Residents of the estate will use electricity on a “pay as you go” basis and pay for it upfront, lowering the risk and anxiety associated with bill inconsistencies.

This one-of-a-kind vending machine is the pioneer of its industry. Clients, such as landlords, property owners, developers, and managing agents, as well as residents, are given the ability to view detailed reports for the purpose of efficiently tracking and monitoring utility use.

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This estate metering system gives estate managers and facility managers the ability to handle private estates and apartment utility management, respectively.

You don’t need an eFactory account to buy electricity units. You only need your phone number to buy the electricity token on the website.

Also, you can download the eFactory app from the Google Play Store and the iTunes Store to purchase power tokens and monitor your energy usage while on the go.

February 23, 2023
World Bank Approves South Africa’s $497m Komati Repowering Loan

The World Bank Group’s Board of Executive Directors have approved South Africa’s request for $497 million (about R9 billion) to decommission and repower the Komati coal-fired power plant using renewables and batteries.

On October 31, the last Komati unit was shut down at midday, heralding the beginning of what Eskom described as a repowering and repurposing of the site into a renewables, storage, manufacturing and training hub.

The company in charge of the power station, Eskom, said the concessional loan facility was approved after successful meetings over the past two months in Washington DC, USA, between the firm and World Bank executives.

According to Eskom, “The loan facility will cover three main components: decommissioning of the Komati power station, repurposing and repowering of the station and other elements of the just energy transition, including provision for the training of Eskom employees, community development and stakeholder initiatives.”

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In a statement by the World Bank, the financing of the ‘Komati Just Energy Transition Project’ would be collaboratively achieved through a $439.5-million World Bank loan, a $47.5-million concessional loan from the Canadian Clean Energy and Forest Climate Facility, as well as a $10-million grant provided by the Energy Sector Management Assistance Program.

Repowering the plant would involve the installation of 220 MW of clean energy solutions, including 150 MW of solar photovoltaic and 70 MW of wind, supported by 150 MW of batteries.

The global body notated that this initiative also creates opportunities for affected workers and communities. This it said, would be made possible through Eskom’s establishment of a containerised micro-grid assembly factory at Komati, alongside the recent signing of a partnership agreement with the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet to develop a Komati Training Facility.

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World Bank’s Report on South Africa

The financing announcement follows closely on the World Bank’s ‘South Africa Country Climate and Development Report’.

The report projects that South Africa’s transition to net zero will require total incremental financing of R8.5-trillion by 2050 and that the funding gap could be closed only with the support of external resources.

The report also reiterated that renewable energy represented the quickest and cheapest pathway out of South Africa’s long-running electricity crisis and that two to three more jobs would be created by pursuing such a pathway when compared with the 300 000 jobs that are likely to be shed in high-emitting sectors.

However, the World Bank did alert of a timing and spatial mismatch in the labour market and indicated that government interventions would be required to assist vulnerable workers.

November 7, 2022