Policies

Integrated Resource Plan for Electricity (IRP)

Source: JOIN IEA/IRENA Policy and Measures Database
Last updated: 2 July 2013

The Department of Energy published, in April 2011, the revised Integrated Resource Plan for Electricity 2010-2030. The plan introduces a set of ambitious generation targets for renewable energy market penetration to 2030, with wind and solar PV expected to be represent most of the future renewable electricity mix. The plan also introduces grid expansion commitments to make it possible for South Africa to meet fast growing electricity demand while dramatically cutting the country's dependence on coal.

Capacity targets to 2030 underline the decreasing share of coal in total installed capacity from 93% in 2011 to 46% in 2030 and substantial share of nuclear, 12.7% by 2030.

Installed capacity targets for renewable energy out of total generation to 2030 have been fixed as follows: 

  • Hydro: 4, 759 MW or 12.7% of total capacity;
  • Wind: 9, 200 MW or 10.30% of total capacity;
  • CSP: 1, 200 MW or 1.3% of total capacity;
  • PV: 8, 400 MW or 9.4% of total capacity.

The Plan introduces target of 1 million solar water heaters to be installed in South Africa by 2030. 

The IPR strategy will be revised every other year, starting from 2012.

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