How Boston Hydropower could redefine SA’s energy future
Watch the team walk us through the hydropower plant, exploring its engineering design, safety systems and operational performance
The recently commissioned Boston Hydroelectric Plant in the Free State province has been described as a perpetual asset – a term reflecting the long-term, sustainable value of hydropower within the energy transition.
Speaking at the site, project representatives highlighted how liberalisation in South Africa’s power market has enabled generators and buyers to negotiate directly, moving away from the historical dependence on Eskom and municipal tariffs.
This shift allows for more flexible power purchase agreements that reflect both market value and the environmental benefits of renewable energy generation.
Constructed at 1,700 metres above sea level, the Boston Hydropower plant’s design balances functionality with environmental integration. The use of Luna Wood, a treated Norwegian spruce, ensures a low-carbon footprint and an aesthetic that complements the surrounding landscape.
Cover photo: ESI Africa
