South Africa’s Eskom will extend the operation of certain coal-fired power plants, including Camden, Krootflei, and Hendrina, until 2030, delaying their closure from the previously planned dates of 2023 to 2027.
This decision comes amid concerns over electricity shortages following last year’s severe power cuts, which significantly impacted the country’s economy, stifling its development.
The postponement of coal plant closures in South Africa highlights scrutiny on the government’s energy transition strategy.
Amid calls for developing countries to prioritize green projects due to environmental concerns, controversial deals like the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JetP) financing model have emerged.
South Africa, for instance, faced criticism over the Komati power plant’s closure in October 2022, which is now slated for repurposing into a wind and solar power facility in Mpumalanga province.