Paused Loadshedding: Should You Rethink Your Backup Power Strategy?

While writing this article, Eskom achieved a 140-day streak without load shedding, a significant economic milestone. Despite this, many South Africans continue to rely on backup power strategies and may be considering more proactive measures to rely less on the national power grid.

While Eskom has implemented load reduction measures in high-risk areas, it has highlighted the possibility of load shedding returning. Furthermore, a nearly 13% tariff increase in July 2024 has added to the uncertainty.

The energy crisis remains a pressing issue, even with the recent success in avoiding loadshedding, especially as deadlines for the UN and South Africa's sustainability goals draw near.

The UN aims to ensure universal access to affordable electricity by 2030 through investments in clean energy sources like solar, wind, and thermal energy. This entails improving infrastructure and technology to provide clean energy globally.

South Africa's Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) aims to increase electricity capacity by 29,500 MW by 2030, focusing on renewables such as 14,400 MW from wind and 6,000 MW from solar sources.

Meeting these ambitious targets requires collaboration from various stakeholders, including government entities, private sector firms, and civil society. Overcoming financial limitations, technological barriers, and regulatory challenges is crucial. Individuals can also play a part by reducing their dependence on the national grid through backup power and renewable energy solutions.

A collective approach is more effective and impactful. By taking individual actions and supporting broader initiatives, we can make a significant difference in addressing these challenges. Kestrel’s micro-turbines are ideal for smaller properties, combined with our hybrid solutions, which can lessen the pinch of rising electricity tariffs and the load on our traditional coal-fuelled electricity. Take a moment to browse the solutions on offer and discover how you can lessen the load on the national grid.