Eskom Launches Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure in Gauteng

Eskom views this pilot project as a blueprint for future expansion, aiming to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and stimulate the local EV market.

Eskom has officially inaugurated its electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at the Eskom Academy of Learning (EAL) in Midrand, marking a pivotal step in its commitment to advancing eMobility in South Africa and supporting the country’s carbon emission reduction goals.

The launch, announced by Eskom, includes a pilot project featuring 20 EVs—ranging from light delivery vehicles to light trucks—and the installation of 10 charging stations across five key sites. These sites include Brackenfell in Cape Town, Mkondeni in Pietermaritzburg, Tlhabane Customer Network Centre (CNC) in Rustenburg, and Marathon CNC in Mbombela.

General Manager in the Office of the Eskom Group Executive for Distribution, Gabriel Kgabo, emphasized the significance of this initiative in Eskom Distribution’s long-term strategy to electrify its entire fleet by 2040. “This milestone is part of our broader goal to ensure energy security, growth, and sustainability for South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa,” Kgabo said.

The newly installed charging stations, developed in partnership with Gridcars, include state-of-the-art direct current fast chargers (60kW) and dual alternating current (AC) chargers (22kW). These facilities are designed for both overnight fleet vehicle charging and daytime workplace charging for employees and visitors.

Kgabo noted that by investing in EV infrastructure, Eskom is reducing its carbon footprint while fostering local economic growth and aligning South Africa with the global EV market. This initiative supports the government’s EV White Paper released by the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition in December 2023 and the incentives announced by the National Treasury to boost local EV production starting in 2026.

Eskom views this pilot project as a blueprint for future expansion, aiming to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and stimulate the local EV market. The successful implementation of this infrastructure highlights Eskom’s dedication to transforming South Africa’s transportation landscape and supporting sustainable development.