Netherlands
1Min
South Africa
Jan 21, 2026
Eskom and the Netherlands are transforming Mpumalanga’s Grootvlei Power Station into a hub for climate-smart farming, skills development, and job creation.
Eskom and the Netherlands are set to launch the Grootvlei Climate Smart Horticulture Centre at the Grootvlei Power Station in Mpumalanga on 27 January 2026, a project that combines South Africa’s energy transition with job creation, skills training, and climate-smart farming.
The pilot initiative forms part of Eskom’s Just Energy Transition (JET) Programme, linking South Africa’s shift away from coal with agriculture, climate-smart food production, skills development, and new economic opportunities.
The Centre demonstrates how repurposing energy infrastructure, such as coal-fired power stations, can generate future-oriented economic activities beyond the energy sector. By combining clean energy solutions with climate-smart horticulture, the project is expected to contribute to job creation, skills development, and more resilient local food systems.
“Climate-smart horticulture allows food to be produced efficiently and reliably, using less water and fewer inputs,” said a spokesperson for Eskom. “This is particularly relevant in Mpumalanga, where communities face the twin challenges of climate change and economic transition. The Centre will serve as a demonstration and training facility, equipping farmers, technicians, and young professionals with market-relevant skills.”
The initiative highlights how the Just Energy Transition can deliver tangible socio-economic benefits, linking repurposed energy infrastructure with productive land use. The project will support alternative livelihoods and inclusive growth, offering opportunities across the agricultural value chain — from production and training to processing and distribution.
The partnership with the Netherlands underscores a focus on practical, integrated solutions. Dutch expertise in high-tech horticulture, energy-smart production systems, efficient water use, and agricultural value chain management is internationally recognised and highly relevant to Mpumalanga’s challenges. By combining South African knowledge and local leadership with Dutch technical expertise, the Centre provides a foundation for a future agrihub and long-term private sector investment.
The Grootvlei Centre will initially operate as a demonstration and training site, with plans to expand over time. The launch will include a tour of the facility, demonstrations of climate-smart technologies, and engagement with key stakeholders from the public and private sectors.
