forecasting , increasing resilience , and reducing the need for reserves , which could ultimately lower costs .
Lastly , implement policies like capacity payments and expand ancillary service markets to incentivise investments in flexible technologies . This will help encourage investments in flexible technologies and create a more adaptable and resilient energy grid .
South Africa stands on the cusp of an energy revolution . The decisions made today will shape the country ’ s infrastructure for decades . By embedding flexibility into the energy system now , as we have seen successfully done in Latin America , South Africa can unlock the full potential of its renewable investments , avoid energy shortfalls , and set itself on a sustainable path to a cleaner , more resilient future . •
About Wärtsilä Energy : The company is at the forefront of the transition towards a 100 % renewable energy future , helping customers and the power sector to accelerate their decarbonisation journeys through market-leading technologies and power system expertise . Solutions include flexible engine power plants , energy storage and optimisation technology , and services for the whole lifecycle of installations . The company ’ s engines are future-proof and can run on sustainable fuels . Its track record comprises 79GW of power plant capacity , of which 18GW are under service agreements , and over 125 energy storage systems , in 180 countries around the world . ( www . wartsila . com / energy )
Introducing Tord Johnsson : Johnsson has been in different management positions within Wärtsilä Energy for more than 30 years . He is presently the general manager of Strategic Relations and Business , Africa . He holds an Electrical Engineering Degree from the Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg , Sweden .
Tord Johnsson , general manager , Strategic Relations and Business , Africa at Wärtsilä Energy .
Gas engines that can start quickly and run efficiently at partial loads , paired with battery storage , offer an effective solution to manage renewable energy ’ s variability .
Supplied by Wärtsilä Energy
58 • African Mining • January 2025 www . africanmining . co . za