Evaluating the Role of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems in Supporting South Africa’s Energy Transition

Abstract

This report evaluates the role of Hybrid Renewable Energy Systems (HRESs) in supporting South Africa’s energy transition amidst persistent power shortages, coal dependency, and growing decarbonisation imperatives. Drawing on national policy frameworks including the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP 2019), the Just Energy Transition (JET) strategy, and Net Zero 2050 targets, this study analyses five major HRES configurations: PV–Battery, PV–Diesel–Battery, PV–Wind–Battery, PV–Hydrogen, and Multi-Source EMS. Through technical modelling, lifecycle cost estimation, and trade-off analysis, the report demonstrates how hybrid systems can decentralise energy supply, improve grid resilience, and align with socio-economic development goals. Geographic application, cost-performance metrics, and policy alignment are assessed to inform region-specific deployment strategies. Despite enabling technologies and proven field performance, the scale-up of HRESs is constrained by financial, regulatory, and institutional barriers. The report concludes with targeted policy recommendations to support inclusive and regionally adaptive HRES investment in South Africa.