SAREM: A Masterplan in the South African Renewable Landscape

March 2025 saw the approval by Cabinet for the implementation of the much- anticipated South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM).

SAREM is an inclusive industrial development plan for renewable energy and storage value chains which aims to contribute directly to the “National Development Plan’s objective of achieving a low-carbon, resource-efficient and pro-employment development pathway.”

Through this development of the local renewable energy and battery storage industry, SAREM seeks to address energy insecurity in South Africa through the enhancement of energy security at main industrial nodes and ensuring reliable, affordable and low-carbon power supply. The vision of SAREM is to achieve a well-developed renewable energy and storage value chain in South Africa, enabling a transformed industry and inclusive industrialisation.

SAREM’s focus is centred on solar and wind energy, lithium-ion, battery and vanadium- based battery storage technologies.

SAREM was presented for the Executive Oversight Committee in December 2023, but as approved by Cabinet, is intended to be a living document. This includes amendments to SAREM to include incentives for investors to fund renewable energy supplier development – most notably green hydrogen.

Be on the look out for more articles and key take aways from the team.