South Africa’s state-owned energy company Eskom Holdings SOC Ltd has reportedly launched electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at the Eskom Academy of Learning (EAL) in Midrand as part of its long-term commitment to support the growth of the eMobility sector within South Africa and contribute to the nation’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions.
In collaboration with Gridcars, Eskom has installed ten EV charging stations across five sites nationwide. These sites include Brackenfell in Cape Town, Mkondeni in Pietermaritzburg, Tlhabane Customer Network Centre in Rustenburg, and Marathon Customer Network Centre in Mbombela.
Each station has direct current (DC) fast chargers capable of delivering 60kW of power and dual alternating current (AC) chargers with 22kW of power, providing overnight charging facilities for fleet vehicles and workplace charging for employees and visitors.
In addition to the charging stations, Eskom has purchased 20 electric vehicles as part of its strategy to electrify its entire fleet by 2040, aligned with a long-term plan to attain net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
According to Gabriel Kgabo, the General Manager in the office of the group executive for Distribution at Eskom, these moves are designed to boost the local economy, besides achieving sustainability. Kgabo said that by investing in eMobility and the necessary charging infrastructure, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also stimulating the local economy and creating new growth opportunities”.
These initiatives by Eskom are also aligned with South Africa’s national policies aimed at nurturing the growth of the EV market.
South Africa’s electric vehicle market has been on the rise for the past few years and is likely to grow in the years ahead. According to Statista, the South African electric vehicle market is anticipated to grow in revenue, with projections indicating US$32.5 million in 2024. This figure is estimated to increase to US$60.8 million by 2028. In the same year, unit sales of EVs in South Africa are estimated to reach 1,413 vehicles.
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