Eskom Deploys Electric Vehicle Fleet with 2035 Full Transition Goal

In a milestone move toward a low-carbon economy, South Africa’s state-owned power utility Eskom has revealed its first fleet of electric vehicles (EVs), signalling its ambition to be a frontrunner in sustainable transport and energy innovation.

The programme includes the deployment of 10 charging points across five Eskom locations, supplying the infrastructure required to support the new fleet and establishing the groundwork for wider EV uptake in South Africa.

A Milestone for Clean Energy

Eskom characterised the rollout as “a major milestone” in its e-mobility strategy, stressing the connection between cleaner transport, lower emissions, and South Africa’s wider climate commitments.

“Eskom is steering South Africa’s shift to a cleaner, low-carbon future. Through e-mobility, we are cutting emissions, fostering innovation, and demonstrating how sustainable energy solutions can deliver tangible benefits for communities and the economy. We view ourselves as more than an electricity supplier – we are enablers of progress,” said Dan Marokane, Eskom Group Chief Executive.

Agnes Mlambo, Group Executive for Distribution, underlined the need for urgent action in the face of climate change: “Eskom is moving to change how South Africans travel in a world where climate change is no longer a distant threat but an immediate reality. The introduction of these vehicles is not just about mobility; it is about rethinking the energy system, lowering carbon emissions, and making sure every community gains from the move to sustainable transport.”

Fleet Expansion Plans

To date, Eskom has acquired 20 EVs, from light delivery vans to light trucks, which are being assigned to its Distribution and Generation Divisions. An additional 100 vehicles are due to be added shortly, illustrating the practicality of e-mobility in operational contexts.

Eskom’s long-term aim is to electrify its entire vehicle fleet, with the Distribution Division—its largest—seeking full electrification by 2035.

Charging Infrastructure Expansion

The utility has committed to broadening charging infrastructure, not only for its own fleet but also for the public. There are plans to install 55 public EV charging stations over the next two years, creating avenues for private uptake and market expansion.

These measures will also act as a proving ground for new commercial approaches, as Eskom shifts toward offering EV-related services as alternative revenue streams.

Grid Readiness and Smart Solutions

Recognising the extra strain EVs place on the power network, Eskom is prioritising grid preparedness. Key actions include:

Incorporating EV load forecasting into long-term planning.
Developing intelligent charging systems to prevent peak-load stress.
Implementing time-of-use tariffs aimed at encouraging off-peak charging, making EV ownership more cost-effective.

By synchronising EV growth with energy planning, Eskom seeks to manage demand efficiently while enhancing reliability.

Collaboration Across Sectors

Since 2021, Eskom has worked with a wide range of stakeholders—including government, vehicle manufacturers, petroleum firms, and research organisations—to create an integrated e-mobility framework.

Through these partnerships, Eskom aims to ensure South Africa does not fall behind in the global EV transition, which is increasingly linked to industrial policy, investment, and climate finance prospects.

Beyond Transport: Jobs and Innovation

Eskom regards e-mobility as more than a climate response. It also sees it as a catalyst for employment, innovation, and industrial growth. By bringing in EVs, Eskom hopes to stimulate demand for local manufacturing, servicing, and supply-chain opportunities, ensuring communities benefit directly.

“Through e-mobility, Eskom is not only lowering emissions but also spurring innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to a cleaner, healthier future for all South Africans,” the company said.

A Turning Point for South Africa

The debut of Eskom’s EV fleet is being hailed as a turning point for South Africa’s energy and transport sectors, which have long been coal-dependent and carbon-intensive.

If successful, Eskom’s plan to fully electrify its fleet by 2035, while expanding public charging stations and enabling grid readiness, could open the door to a national EV ecosystem, benefiting both the environment and the economy.