Advancing Eswatini Energy Independence by Reducing Imported Electricity
Eswatini is on an ambitious path to reshape its energy landscape by drastically cutting down its reliance on imported electricity from 80% to 20% by 2025. Currently, the nation largely depends on electricity imports from South Africa and Mozambique. However, this dependency is poised for a sharp decline as Eswatini actively pursues an expansion in local energy production and renewable energy initiatives.
Vusumuzi Dlamini, the general manager of the Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority (ESERA), has highlighted the country’s progress in diminishing its import reliance. Back in 2018, Eswatini’s import dependency was at a staggering 90%. By 2021, this figure had reduced to 80%, and the target is to bring it down to 60% by the end of the current year. The ultimate vision is to reach a mere 20% by 2025, marking a significant stride towards energy autonomy.
Promoting Local Generation and Renewable Energy for Eswatini Energy Independence
A cornerstone of Eswatini’s strategy to achieve this transformation is the promotion of local electricity generation. New regulations now empower citizens to contribute to electricity production through small-scale generation projects. This initiative has garnered substantial interest, with 123 applications received, and 86 approvals already granted, collectively adding 2.2 megawatts to the national grid.
Moreover, the country is concentrating its efforts on renewable energy projects, especially solar power. Eswatini has earmarked 12 viable sites for solar energy production, with a potential output of 40 megawatts. Two noteworthy solar projects have been initiated, expected to contribute 20 megawatts of power by August 2025.
Dlamini underscores the vital role of renewable energy in Eswatini’s energy strategy, citing its environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness over traditional power generation methods. He also points out the economic advantages, such as job creation and economic stimulation, that renewable energy projects can offer.
For further insights into Eswatini’s energy transition, visit PVknowhow’s report on Eswatini.
Government Support and Future Plans for Eswatini Energy Independence
The Eswatini government is fully supportive of the shift toward local and renewable energy sources. In a recent parliamentary briefing, Dlamini presented the advancements made so far and outlined forthcoming initiatives to achieve the 2025 target. Lawmakers were reassured that the nation is well on course to meet its goals and significantly lessen its electricity import dependency.
Looking ahead, Eswatini plans to further bolster its renewable energy capacity. The exploration of additional solar projects, as well as other renewable sources such as wind and biomass, is underway. These initiatives aim to further cut reliance on imported electricity, paving the way for a sustainable and stable energy supply in the future.
Challenges and Opportunities in Achieving Eswatini Energy Independence
Despite impressive progress, Eswatini faces challenges in completely reducing its dependency on imported electricity. The journey to the 2025 target is contingent upon sustained investment in local generation and renewable energy projects.
Nonetheless, optimism prevails as Dlamini expresses confidence in Eswatini’s energy future. With strategic policies and investments, the country is poised to hit its 20% import target by 2025. The potential of renewable energy to revolutionize the energy sector and contribute to economic growth remains a central focus.
Eswatini’s plan to slash electricity imports from 80% to 20% by 2025 is both bold and commendable. By emphasizing local generation and renewables, Eswatini is charting a course toward energy independence and sustainability.
