Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has unveiled South Africa’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2025, following its approval by Cabinet. The plan outlines an ambitious roadmap to resolve the country’s ongoing electricity challenges and stimulate long-term economic growth.
The government will invest R2.2 trillion—equivalent to about 30% of South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP)—in a large-scale strategy to modernize and diversify the nation’s energy landscape. The initiative forms part of a broader commitment to ensure a reliable electricity supply, promote sustainability, and create employment opportunities.
The announcement follows last week’s briefing by Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, who confirmed Cabinet’s endorsement of the new energy roadmap. The IRP aims to achieve 3% GDP growth by 2030 while driving a major transition toward cleaner and more sustainable energy sources.
For the first time in South Africa’s history, renewable and low-carbon energy sources are projected to surpass coal in the national energy mix. The plan includes:
· 11,270 megawatts of solar photovoltaics (PV)
· 7,340 megawatts of wind power
· 6,000 megawatts of gas-to-power
· 5,200 megawatts of new nuclear capacity by 2030
Currently, coal contributes 58% of the country’s installed electricity capacity, followed by 10% from rooftop PV, 10% from grid-connected solar PV, 8% from wind, and 3% from nuclear sources. This shift marks a decisive move toward a more balanced and environmentally friendly power generation framework.
Dr. Ramokgopa described the IRP 2025 as a defining moment for South Africa’s energy future, emphasizing that it is not just about power generation but also about building a secure energy foundation for economic growth and inclusive development.
The plan underscores the government’s intention to build a resilient, sustainable, and diversified energy system—one capable of powering industries, attracting investment, reducing dependence on coal, and promoting renewable innovation.
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