Latest news with #KgosientshoRamokgopa
The Citizen
2 days ago
- Climate
- The Citizen
Get your blankets out: Double cold snap to hit Gauteng this week
Gauteng residents have been urged to double their blankets ahead of a double cold front expected to hit the province... Gauteng residents have been urged to double their blankets ahead of a double cold front expected to hit the province this week. Temperatures in Gauteng are expected to drop close to the freezing mark as the cold weather grips most parts of the country. Freezing weather Gauteng Weather has forecast the mercury for Johannesburg on Friday to drop to 0°C, reaching a high of 14°C. Pretoria is forecast to have a temperature of 2°C, with a high of 16°C. The cold weather is possibly the last breath of winter as the country moves to warmer temperatures. Emergencies The drop in temperatures means that residents throughout the City of Johannesburg will be forced to use all sorts of heating devices to try to warm themselves. This can make them vulnerable to fire incidents at home if heating devices are used unsafely or unattended. Residents have been urged to use all heating devices safely, including heaters, braziers, paraffin stoves and candles, and not to leave them unattended while in use to prevent fire incidents at home during the extremely cold weather. ALSO READ: Winter wonderland: Snow in parts of SA – will Gauteng be covered in white? Weather across SA Meanwhile, the South African Weather Services (Saws) expects isolated showers along the east coast and the northeastern parts of the country. Possible damaging winds and waves are anticipated along the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). There is also a forecast for extremely high fire danger conditions in the Nama Khoi municipality of the Namakwa district in the Northern Cape. On Tuesday and Wednesday, the weather service forecasts partly cloudy conditions over the central and western parts of the country, with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers. Load shedding While the cold weather sweeps across Johannesburg and the country, South Africans are relieved that there was no load shedding during winter. In May, Eskom said it would have more than 2.5GW of power this winter and could avoid load shedding altogether if unplanned breakdowns remain below 13GW. Minister of Electricity, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, said there would be more power available this year to combat winter. ALSO READ: WMO's new climate forecast warns Earth is getting hotter and hotter
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Enlit Africa 2025 Post Event Report has launched: A defining moment for Africa's power, energy, and water sectors
Enlit Africa ( brought to you by VUKA Group ( is thrilled to announce the release of the Enlit Africa 2025 Post Event Report, a comprehensive summary of the transformative three-day event held in Cape Town. With over 7,000 attendees from 68 countries, this year's gathering solidified its position as a pivotal platform for driving Africa's energy and water transition forward. The report captures the essence of an event that went beyond dialogue, showcasing real action, bold thinking, and meaningful connections under the theme 'Challenge the Status Quo.' It offers a detailed look at the conversations, innovations, and outcomes that are shaping the future of Africa's power, energy, and water sectors. Download the report ( What's Inside the Report? Key Themes: The report offers key insight into critical discussions on small modular reactor (SMR) regulation, battery storage, tariff reform, and municipal turnaround strategies, and highlights how these issues are reshaping the continent's energy agenda and driving tangible progress. Event Highlights: From inspiring keynotes by leaders like South Africa's Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa to the Renewable Energy&Storage Hub addressing grid and finance gaps, the report showcases moments that defined the event. The Project&Investment Network facilitated connections between projects and funding, while Women in Energy celebrated inclusive leadership. Water Security Africa reframed water as critical infrastructure. Site Visit Snapshots: Beyond the conference, delegates visited live sites showcasing generation, distribution, water, and hybrid energy systems. The report includes reflections on smart infrastructure, storage systems, and sustainable designs in action. Top Strategic Recommendations: Actionable guidance across technology, policy, investment, and human capital, backed by evidence and ready for implementation. Impact by the Numbers: Data-driven insights into the event's reach and influence, offering proof of the growing momentum behind Africa's energy and water transition. From ROI validation to partnership scouting, the metrics provide essential context for decision-makers. A Call to Action The conversations at Enlit Africa 2025 sparked a movement, but the work doesn't stop here. The Post Event Report is a tool to reconnect with key moments, reflect on critical insights, and stay ahead in shaping Africa's sustainable future. Download your copy ( of the Enlit Africa 2025 Post Event Report today to explore the metrics, strategies, and stories behind the movement. Join us in carrying this momentum forward as we continue to transform Africa's power, energy, and water sectors together. Save the date for Enlit Africa 2026: 19 – 21 May 2026 at the CTICC in Cape Town, South Africa. Pre-register here ( Distributed by APO Group on behalf of VUKA Group. For speaking opportunities, contact Boipelo Mothlowa: For media enquiries, contact Natalie Simms: About Enlit Africa: Enlit Africa brings the top manufacturers, associations, institutions, and government leaders together to shape a sustainable, prosperous energy and water future for Africa. A leading power, energy and water conference and exhibition, Enlit Africa is designed to provide a unique platform to connect decision-makers and determine Africa's future direction of travel. Enlit Africa takes place annually at the CTICC, Cape Town, South Africa. The event is CPD accredited by the SAIEE and SAICE, thereby contributing to the professional development of industry experts. For more information, please visit the Enlit Africa website at or contact our team at info@ About The VUKA Group: VUKA Group ( brings people and organisations together to connect with information and each other in meaningful conversations to reach the next level of growth in their industry ecosystem. With 20 years of experience in Africa, the group serves the Energy, Mining, Smart Mobility, Transport and Retail sectors, through a range of industry touchpoints across digital, print and in-person platforms. With a commitment to data at its core, the group is well-positioned to support industry stakeholders today and into the future. Operating from Cape Town, South Africa the group is actively involved in projects across continental Africa and boasts a diverse African team who take great pride in the work they do for the sectors and markets they serve.
IOL News
22-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Electricity Minister Calls for Reduction in Rising Power Prices
Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa highlighted the detrimental effects of the rising electricity costs during a recent public address. Image: File Electricity Minister Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has called for urgent action to lower electricity prices, citing concerns that current rates are unsustainable and contributing to widespread energy poverty across South Africa. The minister's remarks come in the wake of a recent tariff increase that has sparked debate among consumers, policymakers, and industry experts. On April 1, Eskom, the country's primary electricity supplier, implemented a tariff increase of 12.74 percent. This hike followed approval from the energy regulator and represents one of the most significant price adjustments in recent years. While Eskom argues that the increase is necessary to cover rising operational costs and investments in infrastructure, many households and businesses are struggling to absorb the higher bills. Minister Ramokgopa highlighted the detrimental effects of the rising electricity costs during a recent public address. He emphasised that the current pricing structure places a heavy burden on South African families, reducing their disposable income and pushing many into energy poverty. The minister described the situation as unsustainable and stressed the need for measures to bring down the cost of electricity to more affordable levels. 'The price of electricity is dealing a serious blow to the disposable income of households,' Ramokgopa said. He urged stakeholders, including Eskom and regulators, to work collaboratively toward solutions that balance the financial health of the utility with the economic realities faced by consumers. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Energy poverty, defined as the inability of households to afford adequate energy for basic needs, has become a growing concern in South Africa. High electricity costs force many families to make difficult choices between powering their homes and meeting other essential expenses such as food and healthcare. The minister's comments underline the urgency of addressing these challenges to improve quality of life and economic stability. The government has acknowledged the complexity of the issue. Eskom's financial struggles, coupled with the need for investment in renewable energy and maintenance of aging infrastructure, complicate efforts to reduce prices. However, Ramokgopa reaffirmed the commitment of the Department of Electricity to exploring innovative approaches, including greater use of alternative energy sources and reforms in the energy sector. Consumer advocacy groups have welcomed the minister's statements but caution that concrete actions must follow words. Many argue that without clear plans to regulate tariff increases and support vulnerable households, electricity costs will continue to rise, deepening social inequality. The minister's call also comes amid broader discussions about South Africa's energy future. The country faces challenges related to supply reliability, infrastructure development, and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. Balancing these priorities while ensuring affordability remains a central concern for policymakers. As the electricity tariff increase takes effect, many South Africans are adjusting their budgets and energy usage in response. The government's stance on reducing prices offers hope, but the path ahead requires coordinated efforts from all parties involved. Minister Ramokgopa plans to engage with Eskom, regulators, and industry leaders in the coming weeks to discuss strategies for addressing the cost crisis. The focus will be on creating a sustainable energy system that supports economic growth while protecting consumers from excessive financial strain. For now, households affected by the price hike are urged to stay informed through official channels and explore available support programs.
IOL News
22-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Cost of energy is too high
We fully agree with Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa's clear and succinct statement to a television station: the cost of electricity in South Africa is "unsustainable" and is forcing many households into energy poverty. He elaborated further, explaining that the government was revising electricity tariffs. 'It's unaffordable,' Ramokgopa added. He summed up the situation by saying many poor people would rather buy bread than purchase electricity units. This is a sad reality faced by millions of South Africans every day. When those with a regular income complain about the cost of electricity, it is evident that the situation has spiralled out of control. We will not discuss the costs involved — the bottom line is that it is expensive. Before 2007, when Alec Erwin made his public declaration about the end of cheap electricity, protests like the recent one in Ekurhuleni were less common, as South Africa previously enjoyed some of the lowest electricity tariffs. Since then, an initial 18% increase has been followed by numerous additional hikes. At that time, price adjustments were necessary to fund infrastructure investments and accommodate a growing population. Consumers who can afford it have been investing in solar power to make their household manageable, but the government has proposed taxing households with solar energy systems. So, where do we begin to address the problem? According to the World Bank, Eskom has 66% more staff than needed to serve its customer base. The power utility has been under increasing pressure to address its overstaffing issues, implement measures to reduce personnel costs, improve efficiency, and ensure its long-term sustainability. We believe this could be a starting point for lowering electricity tariffs. We would prefer Eskom not to frequently approach the National Energy Regulator of South Africa asking for more and exorbitant tariff increases. Lastly, South Africa must accept that paying for electricity is the right thing to do. Nothing for free, unfortunately.
IOL News
21-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Electricity costs are turning into a luxury for many South Africans, says Ramokgopa
Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has vowed to tackle unaffordable electricity pricing, warning it is disproportionately affecting the country's most vulnerable communities. Image: Cape Argus Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has issued a stark warning about the escalating cost of electricity in South Africa, labelling it 'unsustainable' and a significant contributor to the growing energy poverty affecting many households. In an interview with a TV broadcaster at the weekend, Ramokgopa said, 'We are revising the electricity pricing policy to address the issue of the cost of electricity. It's unaffordable.' His comments highlight the urgent need for reform as South Africans grapple with the financial strain of rising energy costs. 'I mean, it's dealing a major blow to the disposable income of households.' He said that for many families, the choice comes down to buying a loaf of bread or replenishing electricity units. 'The choice is easy. They are going to buy a loaf of bread,' he said. Ramokgopa reiterated the government's responsibility to intervene. 'The state has got a duty not to be retrenched, but to be at the forefront of the resolution of this preeminent problem,' he said. His comments come after the National Energy Regulator of South Africa's (Nersa) decision to approve a 12.74% electricity tariff increase for Eskom earlier this year. The increase was effective from April 1, 2025. The increase is part of a multi-year revenue determination process, which will also see tariffs rise by 5.36% in the 2026 and 2027 financial year and by 6.19% in 2027 and 2028. Nersa said the tariff hike aims to stabilise South Africa's energy supply by improving Eskom's financial position, which has been weakened by aging infrastructure, delayed maintenance, and ongoing load-shedding. However, the move has sparked criticism from civil society groups, business owners, and ordinary citizens who argue that consistent increases are adding pressure to an already stretched cost of living. Ramokgopa emphasised that electricity pricing reform is necessary, particularly for poor and rural communities. 'That is disproportionately affecting your peri-urban areas, villages, and, if you like, poor areas… and that's something that is receiving our attention,' he said. Meanwhile, residents of Tembisa have taken to the streets to protest high electricity costs and the new tariff hike introduced by the City of Ekurhuleni. Angry residents began gathering around midnight Sunday and vowed to shut down the township on Monday. Protesters blocked major roads with burning tires, rocks, debris, and even mobile toilets. 'The following routes are affected following yesterday's protest action in Tembisa - Link Road, Sam Molele Drive, Brian Mazibuko Drive, George Nyanga Drive, RTJ Namane Drive, and Jabu Mdunge Drive are still barricaded,' said Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) spokesperson Katlego Mphahlele. Mphahlele said EMPD and South African Police Service (SAPS) officers remained on the scene Monday morning to monitor the situation. 'No participants have been reported thus far,' Mphahlele added. In an updated statement, the EMPD said, 'The situation is still volatile. All main roads are still barricaded with burning tires. They're throwing moving vehicles with stones. Please be cautious.' The protest comes after the recently approved tariffs by the metro, which include fixed monthly fees of under R109 for single-phase connections and more than R200 for three-phase connections. Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel. Cape Argus
