By Levy Masiteng
City Power has announced a significant milestone in its Electric Vehicle (EV) Programme with the recent arrival of new electric vehicle charging stations.
The state-owned power utility, wholly owned by the City of Johannesburg, said this marks a pivotal advancement in its commitment to drive the city towards a cleaner, smarter and sustainable energy future.
The programme forms part of a key component of City Power’s ambitious 10-Point Energy Plan, designed to diversify energy mix, enhance energy resilience, curb carbon emissions and position Johannesburg as a frontrunner in the green economy.
Tshifularo Mashava, CEO of City Power, underscored the importance of aligning with the global shift towards electric vehicles.
“The world is swiftly transitioning from Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to electric-powered alternatives, driven by the critical imperative to decarbonise our economies and combat climate change,” she said.
City Power also highlighted the EV Programme’s potential to create jobs and develop much-needed skills.
“This initiative will play a pivotal role in job creation and skills enhancement,” said Mashava.
To ensure the success of this initiative, City Power has initiated collaborations with universities and technical institutions to develop training programs focused on EV technologies, encompassing safety, battery management, and maintenance.
Moreover, this initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at future-proofing Johannesburg’s economy, reducing carbon footprints, and establishing the city as a leader in the green economy.
With the imminent European Union ban on fossil fuel vehicle imports, City Power underscores the necessity of embracing electric vehicles for Johannesburg’s economic vitality and sustainability.
“We are resolute in our commitment to lead this transformation, not only to safeguard our environment but also to secure jobs, investments, and economic growth for our community,” said Mashava.
City Power is actively rolling out electric vehicle charging stations, deploying its own EV fleet, and developing a comprehensive city-wide EV charging infrastructure.
Addressing concerns about EV charging times, Mashava said City Power plans to introduce a battery-swapping system to enhance practicality and efficiency in EV usage.
In collaboration with the Johannesburg Roads Agency (JRA), installations are scheduled to commence at City Power depots, operational sites, major public roads, Rea Vaya, and Metrobus depots, marking a transformative leap towards redefining Johannesburg’s mobility landscape.
Mashava added: “This initiative signifies a transformative step towards reimagining how Johannesburg moves, embodying our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic development.”
“This EV rollout is more than just a technology upgrade, it’s a transformational step towards reimagining how Johannesburg moves. It embodies our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic development. The arrival of our charging stations is proof that implementation is not a distant dream – it is underway.”
As part of this bold vision, City Power is also establishing an e-Fleet Innovation Lab to promote research, entrepreneurship, and innovation in mobility solutions.
“The world is rapidly shifting from ICE vehicles to electric-powered alternatives,” said Mashava.
“This change is driven by the urgent need to decarbonise our economies and fight climate change. We are determined not to be left behind. We must lead this shift—not only to protect our environment but to secure jobs, investment, and growth for our people.”
Joburg mayor Dada Morero is expected to officially launch the Electric Vehicle Programme in the coming weeks at a date still be announced.
INSIDE METROS