South Africa’s power utility, Eskom, has outlined plans to gradually shut down several of its ageing coal-fired power stations as part of its long-term energy transition strategy. Among those listed is the Camden Power Station, which is expected to be decommissioned around 2030 as the country shifts toward cleaner energy sources.
According to reports and insights, Eskom intends to shut down up to 23GW of coal-fired capacity by 2040, with stations including Camden, Hendrina, Grootvlei, Arnot and Komati forming part of the initial phase of closures leading up to 2030.
This forms part of the utility’s broader plan to reduce emissions and transition away from coal, which currently dominates South Africa’s energy mix.
Information published on Eskom’s official platforms further indicates that the decommissioning of these stations is not simply about closure, but also about transformation. The process presents opportunities for “repurposing and repowering” sites, allowing existing infrastructure to be adapted for renewable energy projects or other forms of cleaner generation as part of the Just Energy Transition (JET) programme.
While Eskom has previously indicated that some closures may be delayed to ensure grid stability, the long-term direction remains unchanged — a gradual reduction in coal reliance and a transition toward a more balanced energy mix that includes renewable sources.
The planned decommissioning of Camden and other stations is expected to have significant implications for local communities and the energy sector, as South Africa navigates the complex balance between energy security, environmental responsibility, and economic impact.