Despite Government’s National Development Plan 2030 efforts, South Africa’s manufacturing sector has yet to see its intended revival. The country is now producing 3.3% less than it did a decade ago and according to Stats SA, as of Q2 2021 employment in the sector had declined by 40% since 1990.
Government has removed the threshold for private electricity provision which allows private entities to generate power without requiring a licence. They will only be required to register and comply with the technical and environment requirements. Under the plan, the lengthy regulatory process for approving new power projects will be streamlined and special legislation will be tabled in Parliament to expedite approval, allowing businesses to commence their operations sooner.
Solar power uptake will be encouraged through incentives that seek to offset solar installation costs. Businesses and households who instal rooftop solar panels will benefit from Eskom’s pricing structure and rules, allowing them to sell excess power to the grid.