Komati power station repurposing project, South Africa

16th December 2022 By: Sheila Barradas - Creamer Media Research Coordinator & Senior Deputy Editor

Komati power station repurposing project, South Africa

Name of the Project
Komati power station repurposing project.

Location
Mpumalanga, South Africa.

Project Owner/s
Eskom.

Project Description
The last operating unit of Komati was shut down and ceased operations at the end of October 2022. Eskom now plans to repurpose the power station.

This will involve the decommissioning, repurposing and repowering of the Komati power station, as well as other elements of the just energy transition (JET), including provision for the training of Eskom employees, community development and stakeholder initiatives.

The first phase of the repurposing will install 150 MW of photovoltaic, 70 MW of wind generatng capacity, a 150 MW battery energy storage system and a synchronous condenser.

Potential Job Creation
Eskom and the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre have signed an agreement to formalise their collaboration to develop renewable-energy artisan skills to support the implementation of the JET. The objective is to educate, reskill and upskill Komati power station staff and qualifying beneficiaries from communities in Mpumalanga.

Capital Expenditure
The World Bank approved a $497-million concessional loan facility to Eskom for the repurposing of the power station in November 2022. The Canadian Clean Energy and Forest Climate Facility Loan has contributed $47.5-million to the loan. The loan will be guaranteed by the National Treasury.

Planned Start/End Date
Not stated.

Latest Developments
None stated.

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
None stated.

Contact Details for Project Information
Eskom, email MediaDesk@eskom.co.za.