Summary
South Africa’s power system is undergoing an energy transition while also managing longstanding operational constraints, aging thermal generation, and limited flexibility. This paper proposes a practical central recommendation: advancements being planned to improve grid flexibility under normal conditions must be co-optimised for a dual‑purpose role in system restoration under blackout conditions. Taking into account that the energy transition will directly impact system restoration plans, the aim of this proposal is to supplement the wealth of operational experience that currently exists with automation, enhanced visibility, and data‑driven decision support that shortens restoration time and reduces risk.
Read more Read lessThe paper establishes the South African context, outlines the targets for the energy transition, and the downstream impacts of this change. Black‑start facility integration is then introduced as a strategic flexibility consideration, and a more advanced version of demand response is also proposed to offer enhanced controllability for both flexibility and controlled load pickup in weak grid conditions. To manage the future grid, the paper highlights the flexibility and restoration benefits of transmission grid enhancements, dynamic topology reconfiguration,
Advanced Distribution Management Systems, and decision support tools. The paper then draws planning insights from operational stress events (e.g., high‑stage load shedding) to reveal gaps in the visibility and prioritisation of essential services. The paper culminates in a phased roadmap tied to a measurable threshold, ensuring readiness for increasing IBR penetration.
Additional informations
| Publication type | Session Materials |
|---|---|
| Reference | C2_10670_2026 |
| Publication year | |
| Publisher | CIGRE |
| Country | South Africa |
| Study committees | |
| File size | 490 KB |
| Price for non member | 30 € |
| Price for member | 30 € |
Authors
NAIDOO Lyle
Keywords
Black-start, Energy Transition, Flexibility, Resilience, Restoration
