BloombergNEF’s South Africa Transition Factbook: Power-Market Reform and Private Investments Drive Energy Transition
South Africa's energy sector is shifting toward private-sector clean power procurement as the country moves past its recent power crisis. BloombergNEF reports that corporate power purchase agreements are now the primary driver for new wind and solar capacity.
Why it matters
The transition to private-led renewable energy is essential for South Africa's economic growth and long-term energy security.
London , September 7, 2026 – South Africa’s energy system is undergoing a major transition as the nation has moved beyond the worst of its power crisis, according to BloombergNEF’s (BNEF) South Africa Transition Factbook 2026 . Persistent load shedding has ended after coal power plants returned to service and private-sector participation increased.
Private clean-power procurement is becoming a defining feature of South Africa’s electricity market. In 2026, corporate power purchase agreements (PPAs) are set to drive more utility-scale renewable additions in the country than government auctions for the first time. BNEF expects corporate buyers to support 73% of the 2.3 gigawatts of anticipated solar and wind additions in 2026. Corporate buyers remain the main driver of renewables through the end of the decade.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in