South Africa’s industrial energy transition moved into a new phase after Eskom officially launched a Request for Qualification (RFQ) process to identify strategic partners for the first phase of its Eskom Green programme, covering up to 6GW of utility-scale renewable energy and energy storage projects. The development was announced on 9 October 2026 and remains one of the country’s most significant industrial infrastructure initiatives.
A Major Renewable Energy Build Programme
The Eskom Green initiative is designed to accelerate renewable energy deployment while expanding electricity supply options for industrial users. Through the RFQ process, Eskom aims to qualify experienced renewable energy developers and strategic partners capable of participating in large-scale generation and storage projects across South Africa.
The first phase targets up to 6GW of capacity, placing it among the largest energy infrastructure programmes currently progressing in the country. The initiative forms part of Eskom’s broader strategy to diversify generation technologies, strengthen productive capacity and support long-term industrial growth.
Why Industry Is Watching Closely
Reliable electricity remains one of the most important requirements for mining operations, manufacturers, logistics operators and large industrial facilities.
By introducing new renewable generation and energy storage capacity, Eskom aims to increase electricity availability while providing industries with greater access to lower-carbon power sources. The programme is also expected to support South Africa’s decarbonisation objectives while improving energy security for productive sectors of the economy.
For industrial investors, the scale of the programme signals continued infrastructure investment in transmission-connected energy assets and reinforces South Africa’s position as one of Africa’s most active renewable energy markets.
Industrialisation Through Energy Infrastructure
The significance of the programme extends beyond electricity generation.
Large-scale renewable energy developments typically create demand across multiple industrial value chains, including engineering services, construction, equipment manufacturing, electrical infrastructure, logistics and long-term operations support.
The procurement process is expected to attract local and international energy developers seeking participation in South Africa’s next generation of utility-scale infrastructure projects.
What It Signals for Economic Growth
The launch of the qualification process demonstrates that energy infrastructure remains central to South Africa’s industrial growth agenda.
For mining companies seeking expansion, manufacturers increasing production capacity and investors evaluating long-term projects, the availability of additional generation capacity remains a critical economic enabler.
As the Eskom Green programme advances, the initiative is expected to become a major contributor to renewable energy deployment, industrial competitiveness and investment mobilisation across the South African economy.
