Advancing Eswatini’s Energy Independence by Reducing Imported Electricity
Eswatini is on an ambitious path to reshape its energy landscape, aiming to drastically cut its reliance on imported electricity from 80% to just 20% by 2025. While the nation currently depends heavily on electricity from South Africa and Mozambique, this reliance is set to fall as Eswatini expands its local generation and renewable energy initiatives.
Vusumuzi Dlamini, general manager of the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA), highlighted the country’s significant progress in reducing this reliance on imports. In 2018, Eswatini’s import dependency stood at a staggering 90%. By 2021, this figure had fallen to 80%, with a target of 60% by the end of this year. The ultimate goal is to reach just 20% by 2025—a major stride towards energy autonomy.
Expanding Local and Renewable Energy Production
Promoting local electricity generation is a cornerstone of Eswatini’s strategy. New regulations now empower citizens to contribute through small-scale generation projects, an initiative that has drawn substantial interest. To date, 123 applications have been submitted and 86 approvals granted, collectively adding 2.2 megawatts to the national grid.
The country is also focusing on renewable energy projects, particularly solar power. Eswatini has earmarked 12 viable sites for solar energy production with a potential output of 40 megawatts. Two significant solar projects are underway and expected to contribute 20 megawatts of power by August 2025.
Dlamini underscored the vital role of renewable energy in Eswatini’s strategy, citing its environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness. He also pointed to the economic advantages these projects bring, including job creation and broader economic stimulation.
For further insights into Eswatini’s energy transition, visit PVknowhow’s report on Eswatini.
Government Support and Future Initiatives
The Eswatini government fully supports this shift toward local and renewable energy sources. During a recent parliamentary briefing, Dlamini presented the progress made to date and outlined future initiatives to achieve the 2025 target. He reassured lawmakers that the nation is on track to meet its goals and significantly reduce its dependence on electricity imports.
Looking ahead, Eswatini plans to further expand its renewable energy capacity. The country is exploring additional solar projects as well as other renewable sources like wind and biomass. These initiatives aim to further reduce reliance on imported electricity, paving the way for a more sustainable and stable energy supply.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite this impressive progress, Eswatini still faces challenges. Reaching the 2025 target will require sustained investment in local generation and renewable energy projects to fully reduce its dependency on imported electricity.
Still, Dlamini remains confident in Eswatini’s energy future. He believes that with strategic policies and sustained investment, the country is on track to hit its 20% import target by 2025. The potential for renewable energy to revolutionize the sector while contributing to economic growth remains a key focus.
Eswatini’s mission to reduce its electricity imports from 80% to 20% by 2025 is both ambitious and commendable. By prioritizing local generation and renewables, the country is charting a clear course toward energy independence and a sustainable future.
