Johannesburg opens first EV charging station, boosting Africa’s shift

Johannesburg is moving to expand clean transport, opening its first electric vehicle (EV) charging station as Africa’s largest city begins to align with a global shift toward low-emission mobility.

The step reflects a broader push by African cities to invest in cleaner infrastructure despite ongoing power constraints. 

The pilot site, launched in Booysens on March 24, 2026, is the first phase of a wider plan to support electric vehicles, including buses, across the city.

Officials say the project is tied to efforts to upgrade Johannesburg’s power system and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. 

Demand for EV infrastructure is also growing across Africa, as cities face pressure to cut emissions, improve air quality and manage rising fuel costs.

With global automakers accelerating electric vehicle production, Johannesburg is positioning itself to keep pace with the shift. 

Mayor Dada Morero said the city wants to move faster on clean energy while addressing high electricity costs that continue to weigh on public finances.

Johannesburg buys power from Eskom at both peak and off-peak tariffs, with peak pricing significantly higher. 

Those costs, along with infrastructure losses of up to 20%, have added strain to the city’s budget.

Morero said battery storage could help ease pressure by reducing reliance on expensive peak electricity and improving supply stability.

Focus on power costs and stability 

City officials say managing energy costs will be key to making electric transport viable.

Battery storage and smarter energy use are expected to play a central role as demand for electricity grows alongside EV adoption.

Building out EV infrastructure 

The charging network will initially be rolled out at depots and along major routes, supporting plans to introduce electric buses across Johannesburg’s seven regions.

The city is also in talks with Chinese automakers and other partners on potential local production and job creation. 

The project, developed with City Power, is part of a broader effort to build a more reliable and cleaner energy system.

As more charging points come online, Johannesburg is likely to offer an early example of how African cities can link electric transport with existing power networks.