Renewables
EPIX launches South African power trading operations
South Africa's newest independent electricity trader, EPIX, has commenced operations to connect renewable energy generators with commercial and industrial buyers.
Key points
- EPIX began trading in August 2026 after acquiring Investec's energy trading licence.
- The platform is a joint venture between Energy Partners and Investec.
- Target sectors include mining, manufacturing, retail, and property.
What happened
South Africa's commercial electricity sector has welcomed a new independent trading platform following the official launch of EPIX in August 2026. Africa Sustainability Matters reported that the enterprise commenced its activities after securing the transfer of an existing energy trading permit previously held by Investec. The National Energy Regulator of South Africa granted approval for the licence transition in June 2026.
The initiative operates as a joint venture formed equally by Energy Partners and Investec. By combining the financial capabilities of Investec with the industrial expertise of Energy Partners, the platform aims to bridge the gap between independent renewable power producers and corporate consumers. Mpho Modise, managing director for generation at EPIX, noted that the enterprise was created to foster competition and encourage private investment within the national electricity landscape, according to Africa Sustainability Matters.
The organisation focuses on heavy energy users across several key sectors, including mining, manufacturing, food and beverages, logistics, and property. Instead of depending on a single source of power, the platform aggregates electricity from various renewable installations to match the specific consumption profiles and sustainability targets of its corporate clients.
Market mechanisms and expansion
Operations rely heavily on wheeling arrangements, which permit electricity generated at a remote site to be allocated to a consumer elsewhere via existing transmission infrastructure. Charl du Plessis, managing director for business development at EPIX, stated that the firm plans to wheel power to clients across major industrial sectors to enhance energy resilience, as reported by Africa Sustainability Matters.
The enterprise intends to expand its procurement mix beyond solar energy by integrating wind power, hydroelectricity, and battery energy storage systems. Furthermore, the firm utilises the Syntiro platform to provide clients with consolidated visibility over their on-site generation and consumption metrics. Longer-term strategic objectives include pursuing expansion opportunities within the wider Southern African Power Pool.
Why it matters
The evolution of independent electricity trading in South Africa highlights broader structural changes in the regional energy sector. According to World Bank data from 2021, South Africa's renewable share of electricity output stood at 6.4 percent, with electricity use per person recorded at 3,308.2 kilowatt-hours in 2024. Expanding private-sector participation and wheeling frameworks can help industrial consumers secure alternative supply options outside traditional vertically integrated utilities.
For energy investors and policymakers across the continent, the development demonstrates how regulatory frameworks are adapting to accommodate independent intermediaries. Successful implementation relies heavily on transparent wheeling tariffs, grid capacity, and stable regulatory oversight. As other African nations explore market liberalisation, the South African experience offers critical insights into the commercial viability of multi-buyer renewable trading models.
Original reporting
This article draws on the following reports. Read them in full on the publishers’ sites.
Context from CEII
Renewables are the fastest-growing part of the world’s energy system. The COP28 goal is to triple capacity by 2030, and solar mini-grids are the fastest route to power for millions of people without electricity.
6.4% of electricity in South Africa was renewable in 2021Countries in this story
Written by the CEII Desk, the Centre’s automated newsroom, from the reporting credited above and CEII’s own data. Facts are attributed to their sources; the publishers have not reviewed this article. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.
