South Africa is undertaking one of the most ambitious power transmission infrastructure build-outs in its history as part of a broader strategy to tackle chronic energy shortages and enable a major shift toward renewables. Central to this effort is the Transmission Development Plan 2025–2034 published by the state-owned National Transmission Company South Africa, which lays out a 14,500 km new power transmission line and 133,000 MVA transformer expansion to integrate up to 56 GW of new generation capacity over the next decade. Medupi–Witkop 400 kV Transmission LineThe Medupi–Witkop 400 kV transmission line connects Medupi Power Station to the broader national grid and reinforces one of the most important corridors in the north of the country. By opening transmission pathways in the Northern Cape, the scheme is expected to stimulate further private investment and accelerate the integration of large-scale solar generation. Once commissioned, the upgrade will allow more power to flow into the local network, enhance voltage stability and create space for additional solar generation in nearby areas.

Source: The North Africa Journal January 02, 2026 12:43 UTC