Eskom, in partnership with the government of the Netherlands and key provincial stakeholders, will officially launch the Grootvlei Climate Smart Horticulture Centre in the coming week, at the Grootvlei Power Station in Mpumalanga.
The centre is a pilot initiative under Eskom’s Just Energy Transition (JET) Programme and represents a significant step in linking South Africa’s energy transition with agriculture, climate-smart food production, skills development and new economic opportunities.
“The Grootvlei Climate Smart Horticulture Centre demonstrates how the repurposing of energy-related infrastructure, such as coal-fired power stations, can support future-oriented economic activities beyond the energy sector. By integrating clean energy solutions with climate-smart horticulture, the project contributes to job creation, skills development and the strengthening of resilient local food systems.
“Climate-smart horticulture enables food to be produced more efficiently and reliably, using less water and fewer inputs. This approach is particularly relevant in Mpumalanga, where communities are grappling with the combined pressures of climate change, water scarcity and economic transition,” Eskom stated.
Related stories
- Smart insurance could shield Africa’s farmers from climate shocks
- Ernest shows how smarter grazing can fight climate change
- Respecting planetary boundaries protects SA food future
- Water-smart farming takes centre stage in fruit industry
Skills development and resilient food systems
According to the organisers, the centre will function as both a demonstration and training facility, supporting farmers, technicians and young professionals with practical, market-relevant skills.
“It illustrates how the Just Energy Transition can deliver tangible socio-economic benefits by linking the repurposing of energy infrastructure with productive land use.
“Through the development of climate-smart horticulture, the initiative supports alternative livelihoods and inclusive growth, while creating opportunities across the agricultural value chain, from production and training to processing and distribution.”
The partnership with the Netherlands reflects a shared commitment to practical, integrated solutions. Dutch expertise in high-tech horticulture, efficient water use, energy-smart production systems and the organisation of agricultural value chains is internationally recognised and directly applicable to the challenges facing Mpumalanga.
“By combining South African knowledge and local leadership with Dutch expertise, the Grootvlei Climate Smart Horticulture Centre provides a strong foundation for the development of a future agrihub and long-term private sector investment,” Eskom explained.
Foundation for a future agrihub
While the centre will initially operate as a demonstration and training site, it is intended to expand over time. The long-term vision is to establish a fully-fledged agrihub that brings together agriculture, energy, skills development and logistics, with increasing involvement from the private sector.
The official launch on 27 January 2026 will include a tour of the facility, demonstrations of climate-smart technologies and engagement with key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, highlighting how the Just Energy Transition can unlock sustainable agricultural and economic opportunities in Mpumalanga.
READ NEXT: Protect your herd: Tips for preventing livestock theft
