Eskom and Huawei Launch Digital Modernisation Centre to Accelerate South Africa’s Power Sector Transformation

South Africa’s state-owned utility Eskom has inaugurated a new digital modernisation facility developed in partnership with global technology provider Huawei, marking a significant step in the utility’s efforts to modernise grid operations, strengthen workforce capabilities and enhance long-term energy security.

The newly launched Eskom & Huawei Modernisation Centre, located within the Eskom Academy of Learning, will serve as a hub for digital skills development, technology demonstration and advanced training programmes aimed at supporting the transformation of South Africa’s electricity sector. The initiative reflects a broader industry trend towards adopting digital technologies to improve grid resilience, operational efficiency, and asset management.

Equipped with a dedicated smart classroom featuring Huawei’s digital education technologies, the facility will deliver specialised training in areas including power information and communications technology (ICT), smart grid systems, cybersecurity, and digital operations and maintenance. The programme is designed not only to upskill Eskom employees but also to support the development of a local talent pipeline capable of driving the country’s ongoing power sector digitalisation agenda.

The collaboration combines Huawei’s expertise in ICT infrastructure and digital energy solutions with Eskom’s operational requirements, with both organisations seeking to accelerate the deployment of intelligent technologies across South Africa’s electricity network. Future areas of cooperation are expected to include joint technology development initiatives and expanded talent development programmes.

Speaking at the launch, South Africa’s Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, highlighted the strategic importance of linking power sector modernisation with skills development. He noted that the new facility would help address critical shortages of digital expertise within the electricity industry while supporting efforts to improve grid reliability, reduce supply disruptions and strengthen the country’s energy security framework.

Eskom Board Chairman Dr Mteto Nyati described digital transformation as a cornerstone of the utility’s long-term restructuring strategy. He said the establishment of the modernisation centre and associated training infrastructure would enhance operational capabilities while preparing a new generation of technical professionals to support Eskom’s evolving business model.

Eskom Group Chief Executive Dan Marokane emphasised the practical application of Huawei’s end-to-end digital energy and ICT solutions within the South African operating environment. He noted that increased digitalisation of grid dispatch, fault management and maintenance operations could significantly improve network performance and reliability.

Meanwhile, Eskom Distribution Group Executive Agnes Mlambo said the smart classroom initiative would enable employees to develop critical digital competencies required to optimise distribution network performance and support more reliable electricity delivery to industrial, commercial and residential consumers.

As part of the project, Huawei has contributed a range of technologies and demonstration platforms, including smart substation systems, intelligent distribution solutions, digital energy applications, cybersecurity platforms and integrated learning technologies. The initiative underscores the growing role of strategic technology partnerships in supporting Africa’s energy transition and the digital transformation of its power infrastructure.