- The Bid Window Seven delay is due to the prolonged update of the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).
- The government plans to publish the advanced IRP before the end of November.
In a setback to South Africa’s renewable energy ambitions, the anticipated Bid Window Seven (BW7) has encountered a delay. The BW7 is now rescheduled to conclude by the end of November. The Electricity Minister, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, announced the delay on Sunday, November 5, during his weekly energy action plan update, coinciding with the return of rolling blackouts. Initially slated for release in September, BW7’s delay is due to the prolonged update of the draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).
Before the end of November, Ramokgopa highlighted that the government will publish the IRP currently in an advanced stage. The delay disrupts plans outlined earlier in the year by Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe. Mantashe, in charge of the IRP, indicated that windows seven and eight would each procure 5,000MW of renewable energy. The IRP, South Africa’s comprehensive policy blueprint for electricity generation, is currently under review. It plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s energy landscape.
Ramokgopa stressed the significance of presenting the updated IRP by the end of November to address ongoing electricity challenges. Despite confidence in meeting the revised timeline, the government’s Independent Power Producer office, responsible for energy capacity procurement, has faced criticism for its perceived slow pace. Mantashe received additional scrutiny from the official opposition, with calls for accountability regarding the delay in presenting an updated plan. South Africa recently experienced its longest stretch without load shedding since the end of 2022, only to revert to Stage 2 load shedding due to improved generation capacity.
Ramokgopa acknowledged the positive trajectory while expressing concern about recurring boiler-tube leaks affecting Eskom’s performance. He stressed the ongoing action plan and pledged attention to areas requiring improvement. Minister Ramokgopa announced plans for follow-up visits to power stations, beginning with Arnot and Hendrina power stations in Mpumalanga. Despite challenges, he reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing energy-related issues and assured the public of ongoing efforts.