Eskom launches first fleet of EVs

JOHANNESBURG - In a landmark step towards sustainable transport and a cleaner energy future nationwide, Eskom has launched its first fleet of electric vehicles (EVs).

Led by its distribution division, the initiative follows the utility's August 2024 milestone of installing 10 charging stations across five sites. 

The launch event featured interactive demonstrations and test drives, highlighting some of the benefits like lower emissions, reduced operating costs and improved efficiency.

Eskom has initially received 20 electric vehicles, which include a variety of light delivery vehicles and light trucks.

Spokesperson Daphne Moekwena said another 100 vehicles were scheduled to arrive soon.

"These vehicles will be deployed primarily in the distribution and generation divisions, supporting operations while demonstrating the practicality and benefits of e-mobility in South Africa."

The organisation said its vision was to gradually transition its entire fleet to electric vehicles, with the distribution division, which has the largest vehicle footprint, targeting full electrification by 2035.

The power utility says it's also prioritising the nation's grid readiness for e-mobility, including integrating EV load forecasting into long-term planning to effectively manage increased electricity demand.