Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa

South Africa is shifting from a power generation system that relies on fossil fuels to one based on renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. Wind and solar energy sources are known for their variability. South Africa's current generation system is not meeting its needs, and the situation will likely worsen as base load facilities continue to age and must be replaced. The article emphasizes the importance of having firm-dispatchable power to balance out the intermittent nature of wind and solar energy sources. The paper proposes the location of firm-dispatchable energy generation in line with the principles of a Just Transition.

Key Findings/Recommendations: South Africa must repurpose old coal-fired power plants to generate firm-dispatchable energy in line with the principles of a Just Transition. A comprehensive strategy that integrates wind, solar, and firm-dispatchable power can be cost-effective and reliable compared to the traditional coal-based approach or the nuclear alternative. A 25-year plan that would invest in flexible and modular dispatchable generation is necessary. The strategic location of this generating capacity should be the decommissioned coal plants, close to major load centres and in places where the grid can handle the input without major changes.

Read online: https://arxiv.org/ftp/arxiv/papers/2403/2403.15037.pdf