Energy Council I EC Briefing Notes to the PCEE on 05 September 2025
Dear Energy Council Members,
Please find attached the briefing notes from James’s presentation to the Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy (PCEE). The presentation focused on the Council’s perspective on strategic imperatives underpinning South Africa’s energy transition. James outlined progress on key reforms, identified priority actions for the 2025–2030 period, and emphasised the need for coordinated implementation to ensure inclusive growth and long-term energy security.
Key Takeaways shared with the Committee:
- Urgency of Delivery
South Africa has made commendable progress in stabilising energy supply and attracting investment. However, the next five years are critical to shift from reform planning to large-scale implementation. Without coordinated action, the country risks a return to energy shortfalls by 2029. - Grid Expansion & Investment Bottlenecks
Transmission constraints—especially in the Northern, Western, and Eastern Cape—are limiting renewable energy deployment. A focused public-private investment model is essential to unlock capacity and enable growth. - SAWEM Implementation
The South African Wholesale Electricity Market (SAWEM) offers significant system-wide benefits. A phased, risk-adjusted rollout is recommended, with operational readiness targeted by 2026. - Municipal Reform & Social Inclusion
Municipalities require support to adapt to the restructured energy market. Ensuring affordability, local buy-in, and inclusive access remains central to a just transition. - Investment Opportunity & Economic Impact
The energy transition represents a R2 trillion investment opportunity, with potential to add 1.3% to GDP growth and create thousands of skilled jobs—if executed effectively.
The Council remains committed to supporting implementation, facilitating structured collaboration, and ensuring that energy reform translates into economic growth, jobs, and social equity.
