SA will achieve universal access to electricity by 2029, says Minister Ramokgopa

SA will achieve universal access to electricity by 2029, says Minister Ramokgopa! South Africa is on track to achieve universal access to electricity by 2029, according to Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. The minister expressed confidence that all households, including those in rural and underserved areas, would have reliable access to power within the next five years.

Currently, an estimated 1.6 million households in South Africa remain without access to electricity. Addressing this gap is a priority for the government, as the country strives to provide equitable access to essential services.

Historical Context and Progress

Minister Ramokgopa highlighted that significant progress had already been made since the end of apartheid. Prior to 1994, only 36% of the population had access to electricity, with 96% of that group being white South Africans. Since then, the government has made substantial strides in expanding the electricity network to previously neglected communities.

Despite these efforts, challenges persist, particularly in rural areas where infrastructure is limited or outdated. Many communities still face barriers to accessing power due to financial constraints, logistical difficulties, and ongoing issues with energy supply and stability.

Commitment to Universal Access

Minister Ramokgopa, speaking at the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) on Tuesday during its investigation into the human rights implications of load reduction, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to achieving universal access.

“The country will achieve universal access in the seventh administration. I’m more than confident,” he declared.

He emphasized the importance of designing and implementing effective financial instruments to accelerate connections and the delivery of affordable electricity.

“It’s cleaner, it’s cost-effective, and it’s also affordable. I’m confident that we are going to reach that,” he added, underlining the government’s intention to prioritize sustainable and affordable solutions for all citizens.

Load Reduction and Human Rights

The minister’s appearance before the Human Rights Commission also touched on the broader issue of load reduction, a practice used to manage electricity demand and prevent grid collapse during times of high stress.

Load reduction disproportionately affects low-income and rural communities, often leaving them without electricity for extended periods. Critics argue that this practice violates basic human rights, as electricity is essential for education, healthcare, and economic development.

Ramokgopa acknowledged these concerns and reiterated the government’s responsibility to ensure equitable access to electricity, especially for vulnerable populations.

Financing Solutions and Infrastructure Development

To achieve universal electricity access, significant investment in infrastructure and financing mechanisms will be required. Ramokgopa outlined plans to create financing models that would make it easier for the government and private sector to collaborate on expanding the electrical grid.

These financing tools are expected to accelerate the delivery of power to remote and rural communities, many of which are still reliant on traditional energy sources like wood or paraffin for cooking and lighting.

Additionally, the minister stressed the importance of integrating renewable energy solutions into the national grid. Solar and wind energy, in particular, are seen as critical to ensuring that electricity delivery remains both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable.

Public Confidence and Future Outlook

While the minister expressed confidence in the government’s ability to meet its 2029 target, skepticism remains among some South Africans who have experienced prolonged power outages and inconsistencies in service delivery. The ongoing challenges faced by state-owned utility Eskom—such as corruption, mismanagement, and aging infrastructure—continue to pose significant obstacles.

Nonetheless, Ramokgopa’s bold vision offers hope for a future where all South Africans have equal access to electricity, a fundamental step toward addressing inequality and improving quality of life across the nation.

Achieving universal electricity access by 2029 would not only mark a historic milestone for South Africa but also reaffirm the government’s commitment to social justice, economic development, and the realization of basic human rights for all citizens.