NERSA reported the registration of 142 solar facilities in Q3 of 2024-25, totaling over 1.1 GW. The Western Cape and Gauteng led in registrations, while Limpopo recorded the highest investment at ZAR 13.5 billion for 627 MW. Cumulatively, NERSA has approved 1,811 facilities since 2018.
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) recently announced the registration of 142 solar facilities within the third quarter of the financial year 2024-25, amounting to a capacity expansion of over 1.1 gigawatts (GW). Each facility incurred an average investment of ZAR 22,371 (approximately $1.22) per kilowatt, underscoring the nation’s commitment to enhancing energy generation capabilities.
The Western Cape and Gauteng provinces emerged as leaders in registered facilities, with 54 and 35 registrations respectively. Notably, Limpopo province reported the highest total investment at ZAR 13.5 billion, linked to 627 megawatts (MW) of capacity, indicating its increasing significance in South Africa’s energy landscape.
Among the newly registered facilities, NERSA indicated that one was sanctioned for commercial purposes, and 82 facilities, representing over 1 GW of capacity, are now connected to Eskom’s distribution network, with the rest integrated with municipal networks. NERSA has approved a cumulative total of 1,811 generation facilities since the inception of its current registration framework in 2018, yielding a total capacity of 10.5 GW.
NERSA stated, “This growth is a testament to the effectiveness of the regulatory framework in facilitating energy generation capacity.” Furthermore, the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) noted that the country has successfully added 1.1 GW of solar capacity in 2024.
In summary, South Africa’s NERSA has made significant progress in solar energy registrations, highlighting the expansion of renewable energy capabilities across various provinces. The increase in registered facilities and investment indicates a robust regulatory framework supporting the nation’s energy growth. Limpopo’s substantial investment reflects its emerging role in this sector. With ongoing efforts, South Africa aims to enhance its energy generation capacity further.
Original Source: www.pv-magazine.com
