Eskom Launches R1.2 Billion Solar Project to Transform Coal Power Stations into Renewable Energy Hubs
Eskom has launched a R1.2 billion renewable energy initiative aimed at integrating solar power into its existing coal-fired power station network, starting with a 75 MW solar facility at the Lethabo Power Station in the Free State.
The project marks the beginning of Eskom Green’s broader strategy to convert selected coal plant sites into hybrid energy hubs, combining traditional infrastructure with new renewable energy capacity.
The Lethabo solar plant is part of 17 priority projects planned across Eskom’s generation fleet. Construction is expected to commence in phases between now and 2028.
In total, the utility aims to add approximately 6 GW of new generation capacity by 2030 by repurposing existing power station sites.
Additional projects are planned at Arnot, Duvha, Majuba, Tutuka, Komati, Kendal, Kusile, Hendrina, Camden, and Grootvlei power stations.
Eskom said leveraging existing infrastructure will reduce development costs, accelerate project timelines, and enhance grid stability while supporting the integration of renewable energy into the national system.
Once operational, the Lethabo solar facility is expected to generate around 147 GWh of electricity annually, enough to supply approximately 60,000 households.
The project is also expected to create local employment opportunities and support skills development during both construction and operational phases.
Eskom Group Executive for Generation, Bheki Nxumalo, said the initiative reflects the utility’s strategy to optimize existing assets while expanding cleaner energy capacity.
“Bringing this solar plant into the Lethabo Power Station site affirms our deliberate strategy to optimize existing assets while accelerating new lower-carbon generation capacity,” Nxumalo said.
He added that while coal remains essential for maintaining grid stability, Eskom is actively strengthening system resilience through the gradual integration of renewable energy sources.
Eskom also highlighted its financing approach, noting that renewable projects will be structured through Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) and project finance models.
This strategy is intended to reduce pressure on the utility’s balance sheet while enabling large-scale renewable expansion.
The utility said it is developing a broader pipeline of more than 32 GW of renewable energy and storage projects planned through 2040, positioning itself for a long-term transition toward a more diversified and lower-carbon energy system.
