By Azwidohwi Mamphiswana
Eskom’s ongoing deployment of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure continues to advance, with notable developments that could impact SMMEs.
Since the initial launch in August last year, Eskom has installed EV chargers at multiple sites. They include the Eskom Academy of Learning in Midrand, Brackenfell in Cape Town, Mkondeni in Pietermaritzburg, Tlhabane Customer Network Centre in Rustenburg and Marathon Customer Network Centre in Mbombela.
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These installations are part of Eskom’s pilot project, which includes the procurement of 20 electric vehicles for operational use.
As of this month, three of these vehicles have been delivered, with the remaining 17 expected by the middle of next month. The installed chargers have collectively dispensed nearly 3,500 kWh of electricity since August 2024.
Expanding EV infrastructure offers SMMEs in logistics and transport cost-saving opportunities by enabling electric fleet adoption and supporting sustainability goals.
Eskom’s Gabriel Kgabo said that by investing in electromobility and the charging infrastructure needed for electric vehicles, the company was not only reducing its carbon footprint, but also stimulating the local economy and creating new opportunities for growth.
Analysts see both potential and challenges in expanding EV charging infrastructure in South Africa.
The market is expected to grow significantly.
A MarkNtel Advisors report projects a strong compound annual growth rate from 2021-2026, driven by investments in road infrastructure and smart transport systems.
The 2024 GreenCape report highlights the need for more charging stations to support private EVs and other e-mobility options like e-taxis, e-buses, e-scooters and e-bikes, especially considering e-commerce growth.
However, the practicality of this transition is contingent upon the stability of South Africa’s electricity grid.
While Eskom had managed to maintain continuous electricity supply for over 300 days until it was hit by load-shedding twice in less than a month, concerns about grid reliability persist.
Additionally, private power producers have raised issues regarding requests from Eskom to load-shed, citing revenue losses due to curtailment.
Ian Burger, technical director at SOLA Group, stated: “We hope that there will be adequate compensation for the generation that has been curtailed.”
