City Power Energy Indaba 2025 closes with commitment to affordable and sustainable energy

Johannesburg’s energy future took centre stage over two days as the City Power Energy Indaba 2025 concluded at the Marriott Hotel in Melrose Arch on Wednesday.

The event brought together government leaders, energy experts, business representatives, community organisations, and young people to discuss strategies for ensuring affordable, sustainable, and digitised energy for all residents.

The two-day gathering focused on practical solutions to reduce energy poverty and increase access to reliable electricity, while aligning with the City of Johannesburg’s broader goals of economic growth and technological advancement.

City of Johannesburg mayor Dada Morero, officially opened the Indaba on Tuesday, calling for an inclusive energy system that benefits all communities. He said the city must “move away from an energy system defined by scarcity and inequality to one grounded in shared ownership, participation, and justice.”

Morero also stressed that the transition to clean energy should focus not only on technology but also on addressing the social and economic imbalances that have left many communities behind. “The transition must not only focus on technology, but also on the social and economic transformation of communities historically excluded from energy access and opportunity,” he said.

City Power Board Chairperson, Makhosini Kharodi, emphasised that the Energy Indaba was not just a platform for discussion but a space to turn ideas into action. “This Indaba is not a talkshop,” he said. “It is about implementing programmes that will change how Johannesburg is powered and how communities live.”

Throughout the sessions, speakers and panelists explored the role of renewable energy, digitisation, and policy reform in reshaping the city’s energy landscape. Discussions covered topics such as grid modernisation, energy storage, artificial intelligence, and the transition toward smart city readiness.

Delivering her closing remarks, City Power Chief Executive Officer, Tshifularo Mashava, thanked all delegates and partners for their contributions, describing the event as “a milestone in redefining Johannesburg’s energy story.”

Mashava said City Power remains committed to making electricity more affordable and accessible, while modernising infrastructure to support sustainable development. “As we close this chapter of the Energy Indaba, our work begins in earnest. The ideas shared here on digitisation, renewable integration, and human capital development will inform how we power Johannesburg’s future,” she said.

She added that City Power’s transformation from a traditional electricity distributor to a modern energy service provider was gaining momentum. The utility has started rolling out Intelligent Distribution Systems to improve supply reliability, reduce technical losses, and increase customer satisfaction through digital innovation.

“The journey toward sustainable energy must be inclusive,” said Mashava. “We must ensure that every resident benefits from the advances we make in technology and innovation.”

The Indaba also reflected on the progress made in reducing load shedding and improving supply stability through partnerships with independent power producers and local businesses. Delegates agreed that collaboration between government, industry, and communities is essential for achieving Johannesburg’s energy goals.

City of Johannesburg Smart City Leader, Lawrence Boya, reminded participants that reliable energy is the foundation of a smart city. He highlighted the City’s Mayoral High Impact Service Delivery Programme, which focuses on improving electricity, roads, and sanitation services. “Before we can build a smart city, we must fix the basics,” Boya said. “Reliable power supply is the cornerstone of that transformation.”

One of the key highlights of the Energy Indaba was the active involvement of young people. Learners from various schools presented ideas and solutions for South Africa’s energy challenges, showcasing innovation and enthusiasm for renewable technologies.

Reabetswe Seerane, a pupil from Kwa-Bhekilanga High School, spoke passionately about renewable energy as the future. “The sun, rain, and wind will always be with us. These are gifts that do not run out, unlike coal. That is why green energy is the future,” she said. “On sunny days we can get energy in the form of solar power. On rainy days, we can generate hydro energy, and on windy days, we can draw energy from the wind.”

Another learner, Sindiswa Msimango from David Makhubo High School, called for innovation in everyday technologies to help reduce energy costs. “We need to redesign things like lightbulbs to use less energy but give more light,” she said. “Small changes like that can make electricity affordable for every family.”

The contributions from young participants underscored the importance of education and youth inclusion in building a sustainable energy future. Their insights reflected a growing awareness of climate issues and a strong commitment to innovation.

Throughout the Indaba, delegates reaffirmed the importance of the just energy transition, ensuring that no community is left behind. They also highlighted the role of local businesses and residents in supporting renewable projects, improving energy efficiency, and promoting responsible energy consumption.

In closing, City Power’s leadership confirmed that the outcomes of this year’s Indaba will shape future strategies focused on affordability, sustainability, and technological advancement. “The conversations and commitments made during this Indaba will guide our priorities,” said Mashava. “Our vision is a Johannesburg where energy is accessible, affordable, and sustainable for all.”

The City Power Energy Indaba 2025 ended with renewed optimism and a clear message that collaboration, innovation, and inclusion are key to achieving energy security in Johannesburg.