Is Eskom launching a battery energy storage system in South Africa?

Friday, 10 November 2023: Eskom unveiled the first of its kind largest Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project not only in South Africa but in the African continent. Eskom officially opened the Hex BESS site at Worcester in the Western Cape yesterday.

Does South Africa have a battery energy storage system?

South Africa’s state-owned power utility, Eskom, has inaugurated Africa’s largest battery energy storage system (BESS), marking a major milestone for the country and the continent. The project in Worcester in the Western Cape province is part of Eskom’s initiative to address the chronic electricity shortages that have plagued the economy for years.

How does Bess work in South Africa?

South Africa’s electricity grid faces significant challenges in balancing supply and demand. By storing energy and discharging it when required, BESS helps stabilise the grid, reducing the risk of power outages. While solar and wind power are abundant, they are not constant sources of energy.

Where are dispatchable energy & grid infrastructure located in South Africa?

The project is located near Kathu, Northern Cape, close to high power demand centres. “We are showing and supporting that dispatchable energy and grid infrastructure are cornerstones to the sustainability of South Africa’s current and future energy system.

What is Eskom doing in South Africa?

Her fiction and non-fiction narratives captivate and resonate with a diverse audience, showcasing her versatility and depth as a writer. Eskom has launched Africa’s largest battery storage facility in Worcester, South Africa, to address electricity shortages and support the just energy transition.

How can Bess help South Africa reduce reliance on coal-fired power stations?

One of South Africa’s key goals is to reduce its reliance on coal-fired power stations. BESS supports this transition by making renewable energy sources more efficient and dependable, ultimately leading to a greener and more sustainable future.