Eskom plans full-scale biomass-coal trial at Kriel by March 2027

By Lebone Rodah Mosima

Eskom plans to conduct a full-scale biomass-and-coal co-firing demonstration at Kriel Power Station by March 2027 as it advances clean-coal, carbon-capture, green hydrogen and other technologies aimed at improving the performance and sustainability of South Africa’s electricity system.

The utility outlined its plans after Electricity and Energy Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa visited its Research, Testing and Development (RT&D) facility in Johannesburg on Wednesday.

Eskom said the visit demonstrated progress in clean coal, green hydrogen and other technologies aimed at strengthening operational performance, national energy security and a responsible energy transition, while building the capabilities needed to provide reliable, affordable and competitive electricity over the long term.

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Pilot-scale testing of torrefied woody and corn biomass was conducted in December 2025.

Testing at a 20% co-firing ratio indicated reductions in carbon dioxide and sulphur dioxide, with the full-scale demonstration