Saturday, 18 July 2026: Eskom has successfully installed a renewable energy microgrid solution at the Mafikeng Provincial Hospital, North West, through its corporate social responsibility vehicle, the Eskom Development Foundation (ESDEF). The technology will be used to increase resilience for critical hospital departments including the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), operating theatres and the Emergency Department.
“As we commemorate Nelson Mandela Day, we are reminded that service is measured by impact. This renewable energy microgrid will help ensure reliable power for critical healthcare services and strengthen energy resilience. It is a practical demonstration of Eskom’s commitment to a sustainable and inclusive energy future,” said Portia Mngomezulu, Eskom Group Executive for Corporate Services.
“It is particularly fitting that this facility is being handed over on Mandela Day. By providing a clean and reliable energy solution to support critical healthcare services, we are investing in the well-being of communities and creating lasting social impact. This project reflects the Eskom Development Foundation’s commitment to touching the lives of South Africans positively,” said Mologadi Motshele, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Eskom Development Foundation.
The project provides the hospital with a 200kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system coupled with a 400kWh battery energy storage system as a backup supply, sufficient electricity to efficiently meet the requirements of a provincial hospital. The donation of this technology solution will ensure continued reliable electricity supply, as the Eskom-supplied area is prone to cable theft, which negatively impacts power supply. The new equipment will assist in meeting the increasing energy demand of the hospital. The solution will also reduce the hospital’s operational costs due to the reduced requirement for diesel-powered backup generation.
The hospital serves approximately one million people across the Ngaka Modiri Molema District, providing vital services to the communities. Ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply is essential for patient well-being and the effective delivery of healthcare services.
The solution comprises a ground-mounted solar PV installation and battery storage system which is integrated through the Central Microgrid Controller (CMG).
Supporting South Africa’s Just Energy Transition
As Eskom continues to evolve its energy mix, projects such as the Mafikeng Provincial Hospital microgrid highlight the role that renewable energy can play in strengthening essential public services, improving energy resilience, and supporting South Africa’s development objectives.
The microgrid demonstrates how renewable energy and battery storage can be deployed to support critical public services while contributing to South Africa’s broader energy transition objectives. It also illustrates Eskom’s ability to combine reliable baseload electricity supply with modern clean-energy technologies that deliver tangible benefits to communities.
Eskom remains committed to delivering sustainable energy solutions that support economic growth, social development, and a secure electricity future for all South Africans.
About Eskom and Electricity – Debt: The company has faced significant debt challenges, exceeding R400 billion.
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