South African Government calls for Renewable Energy Bids

The South African Government’s Department of Energy (DoE) began a renewable energy independent power producer (IPP) tender process early in August; renewable energy companies across the country are bidding to supply power to South Africa, submitting proposals for the finance, construction, operation and ongoing maintenance of their sustainable energy projects. 

Any South African with a solar heating system in the home or office will know just how cost effective renewable energy technology can be, and will welcome the news that the Government is looking to find sustainable national energy solutions. The DoE plans to source 3725 megawatts of energy from renewable sources, and expects to get a certain amount of energy from a number of different sustainable technologies: 

The South African Government has also allocated 100MW for small-scale renewable energy projects (those that will generate less than 5MW each).

While many South Africans have begun enjoying the cost-cutting (and eco friendly) benefits of sustainable technology such as LED light bulbs, , a staggering 3.7 million people in the country still do not have access to electricity. By investing in renewable energy, the Government hopes to take steps towards meeting the country’s growing energy demands; renewable energy sources are expected to make up an impressive 42% of the 50GW capacity that the Government aims to have built by the year 2030.