THE 2050 ENERGY STRATEGY FOR THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN

The City of Cape Town’s 2050 Energy Strategy charts a long-term path to transition from a centralised, fossil-fuel-based system to a decentralised, reliable, and carbon-neutral energy future. Driven by the urgent need to end load-shedding and foster economic growth, the strategy outlines a three-phased approach to transform the municipal electricity utility into a future-fit business that empowers residents and businesses to participate actively in a changing energy landscape.

This guide focuses on the City's three core commitments and two supporting enablers:

• Harness New Energy Supply: Procuring and diversifying energy sources, including independent power production and small-scale embedded generation, to add up to one gigawatt of power to the grid.
• Alleviate Energy Poverty: Ensuring indigent and informal settlement households have access to safe, affordable, and sustainable energy services through targeted subsidies and electrification.
• Optimise Energy Use: Improving energy efficiency in municipal and private buildings, enhancing demand response programs, and supporting the transition to electric vehicles.
• Operate a Future-Fit Utility Business: Restructuring the electricity utility to enhance financial sustainability and modernise infrastructure, ensuring reliable service as the energy market evolves.
• Action by Residents, Businesses, and Partners: Empowering stakeholders with transparent data and engagement initiatives to facilitate collaborative action toward energy security.

By aligning these actions with a 2050 vision, the City of Cape Town aims to build a resilient, prosperous, and inclusive "City of Hope" where energy security supports the well-being of every resident.