South Africa Phase Change Energy Storage Project

Is Eskom launching a battery energy storage system in South Africa?

Friday, 10 November 2023: Eskom unveiled the first of its kind largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project not only in South Africa but in the African continent. Eskom officially opened the Hex BESS site at Worcester in the Western Cape yesterday.

What will South Africa's oasis projects deliver?

South Africa’s Oasis projects will deliver 257 MW battery storage, enhancing grid stability and driving renewable energy innovation.

How can South Africa cope with high energy demand?

By Calvin Augustine South Africa is exploring various new ways of easing the strain on the national grid during periods of high energy demand. It is part of government’s commitment to tap into all available avenues to help get us through our energy crunch.

How many MW will South Africa's solar power plant deliver?

With an installed solar capacity of 540 MW of PV, and a battery storage capacity of 225MW/1,140MWh, the plant is designed to deliver 150 MW of dispatchable power from 5 am to 9.30 pm year-round to the national grid under a 20-year power purchase agreement with South Africa’s national power utility company, Eskom.

How far is Eskom's energy storage project from Norway to South Africa?

The extensive project involves more than 9,000 kilometers of cabling, equivalent to the distance from Norway to South Africa. It’s great to see more large energy storage projects coming online in South Africa. Just 2 months ago, Eskom unveiled another large battery storage project.

Does Eskom own a power plant in South Africa?

Eskom’s application for a generation license for the facility was approved by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) in September 2022. Eskom will own the asset but project developers will carry out operations and maintenance (O&M) duties for a fixed period of five years.