# Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan
Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan recently expressed his optimism regarding projects like Eskom’s Hex Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Worcester in the Western Cape, stating that they could help bring an end to load shedding in South Africa.
Gordhan made these remarks during his speech at the launch of Eskom’s BESS at the Hex substation in the Breede Valley Municipality.
The launch of this project marked a major milestone, as it is the first of its kind in Africa. Minister Gordhan highlighted the significance of such projects, stating that they create hope for overcoming the challenge of load shedding in the near future.
He emphasized that if more projects like this are implemented in different parts of the country as intended by Eskom, load shedding will soon become a thing of the past.
In addition to addressing load shedding, the Hex battery storage project also aligns with the Just Energy Transition (JET) program, which aims to promote green energy as a viable alternative source. As renewable energy continues to grow in importance, the demand for Battery Energy Storage Systems also increases. The Hex project is just the first phase of Eskom’s larger rollout of battery storage systems, which is scheduled for construction in the Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal.
Minister Gordhan emphasized that these projects have far-reaching benefits beyond alleviating load shedding. They contribute to economic growth and job creation, attracting more investments to not only the Western Cape but the entire country.
The Minister expressed his belief that younger generations can look forward to a better quality of life, thanks to innovative solutions like the Hex BESS project.
It is crucial, however, that these projects prioritize the country’s best interests and the well-being of its people rather than benefiting a select few.
Referring to the recent Census results, Gordhan stressed that the approximately 62 million citizens should be the primary beneficiaries of these initiatives.
The government’s goal is to achieve energy security in the country, ensuring that there is always a surplus of electricity available. This surplus can be likened to having a savings account for emergency energy needs, and Eskom, along with private sector investments in renewables and other forms of energy, will play a vital role in developing and maintaining this surplus.
Minister Gordhan acknowledged the substantial cost of the Hex BESS project, totaling R830 million. However, he also noted the positive impact on the local community, as 255 residents from the greater Worcester area were employed during the construction phase.
He emphasized the importance of learning from this project’s experience and success and applying those lessons to future projects in other provinces.
The Minister expressed his gratitude to the funders who made the project possible. Without the concessional funding provided by institutions such as the World Bank, African Development Bank, and the New Development Bank, Eskom would not have been able to carry out this initiative. Gordhan also thanked Hyosung Heavy Industries for supplying the batteries and Eskom for conceiving and researching the project.
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