South Africa-China energy investment

In early August 2026 South Africa announced a Chinese‑backed programme worth roughly $122 billion to revamp its power sector, targeting 105 GW of new generation capacity and extensive transmission upgrades by 2039. The plan emphasized joint construction, local manufacturing, technology transfer and the development of new industries such as battery production, green hydrogen and nuclear power.

A few days later, South Africa’s Electricity and Energy Minister led a delegation to Beijing, where officials reported concrete interest from six Chinese equipment manufacturers and secured a green‑hydrogen project for Sasol’s plant. A memorandum of understanding was also signed between South Africa’s National Radioactive Waste Disposal Institute and the China National Nuclear Corporation to cooperate on nuclear‑waste technologies. The mission highlighted technical visits to ultra‑high‑voltage transmission sites and data‑centre power solutions, outlining a clear roadmap for high‑impact projects that aim to stabilise the grid and drive industrial expansion.

Together, the announcements trace the progression from a broad investment pledge to specific project commitments and collaborative agreements between the two countries.