The National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) has delayed the launch of the South African Wholesale Electricity Market (SAWEM), with implementation now targeted for the third quarter of this year.
SAWEM was originally scheduled to go live on April 1.
The NTCSA says the revised timeline follows further engagement with the National Energy Regulator of South Africa and industry stakeholders. Key market, operational and regulatory components have not yet been finalised.
According to the NTCSA, the delay reflects the complexity of establishing a wholesale electricity market and the need to ensure that systems, regulatory frameworks and operational processes are aligned ahead of implementation.
A phased approach will support the rollout.
The NTCSA says the revised timeline intends to ensure that the final market design is consistent with regulatory requirements.
“We are laying the foundation for a more efficient, transparent and competitive system that, over time, will support lower electricity costs and attract the investment needed to ensure long-term energy security,” said Monde Bala, CEO of the NTCSA.
