Eskom is increasing its initiatives in favour of renewable energy. After announcing an ambitious plan to develop new clean energy power stations a few days ago, the South African public utility wants to respond to the desire for sustainability of South African companies. The company is setting up a mechanism to enable them to meet their renewable energy commitments by purchasing energy from Eskom, without having to invest in a clean energy generator or enter into long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs).
According to Eskom, this offer allows customers to have a 24 hour supply of renewable energy for their facilities, and gives them the ability to move their premises without having to move renewable energy assets.
A 2-year pilot programme
Eskom’s renewable energy tariff pilot programme will end in 2023. “The renewable energy tariff is designed to provide Eskom’s customers with a cost-effective and flexible option to consume renewable energy. It also allows you to buy electricity flexibly, conveniently and at short notice when you move your facilities. It will be available to Eskom customers with current electricity accounts,” says Monde Bala, the head of Eskom’s distribution division.
According to Monde Bala, all customers participating in the pilot programme will be able to choose a % of their current electricity consumption to be green. The renewable energy tariff can also supplement third-party or home grown renewable electricity to help customers meet their clean energy target.