As South Africa takes critical steps toward transforming its electricity sector into a more open and competitive environment, a bold new initiative is set to equip the next generation of energy professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive. The National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) has announced the launch of the SAWEM School – a flagship educational programme designed to prepare participants for active and accredited engagement in the soon-to-be-launched South African Wholesale Electricity Market (SAWEM).
Set to begin in July 2025, SAWEM School is a structured, immersive programme developed to demystify the complexities of the electricity trading landscape. Delivered over three days each month, the curriculum combines theory and real-world simulations, providing stakeholders with practical experience in how the market will function once operational.
“SAWEM School is your launchpad into the competitive electricity market,” says Keith Bowen, Senior Manager: Market Operations at NTCSA. “It’s not just a course – it’s a critical step in building a knowledgeable, compliant, and empowered market participant base.”
Why the SAWEM school matters
The opening up of South Africa’s electricity market is more than a policy shift – it’s a systemic overhaul that demands a high level of technical and operational competence from every player involved. The success of this transition hinges on the ability of Independent Power Producers (IPPs), aggregators, traders, large customers, and other stakeholders to operate efficiently, transparently, and in line with market rules.
To meet this need, SAWEM School is designed to offer:
- A deep dive into the market structure, including the roles and responsibilities of each participant
- Hands-on guidance on essential mechanisms such as gate closure, dispatch, and system balancing
- Insights into financial settlement processes, credit management, and risk mitigation
- Expert-led case studies and simulations that reflect real-world market scenarios
According to NTCSA, the initiative reflects a global best practice: ensuring that those entering a liberalised energy market are knowledgeable, compliant and capable participants. “Our priority is to ensure that all market participants are both capable and compliant,” adds Bowen. “SAWEM School plays a critical role in achieving that.”
Certification: A gateway to market entry
Participation in the SAWEM market will not be automatic. In alignment with the SAWEM requirements, certification from the SAWEM School is a prerequisite for market entry. This ensures a level playing field and safeguards system integrity.
NTCSA is making it clear: from Day One, the SAWEM market will be a space for certified participants only. That means any individual or entity intending to trade or operate within the market – whether generating, buying, or selling electricity – must first pass through the SAWEM School. The school’s mantra, “Know the Rules. Enabling Participation,” underlines its dual mission: education and empowerment.
By empowering stakeholders with the skills and credentials required to participate in a modernised electricity market, NTCSA is laying the groundwork for a more reliable, efficient, and sustainable energy future.
As July 2025 approaches, SAWEM School represents both a symbol and a catalyst for change – turning policy into practice and preparing the people who will power South Africa’s new energy economy.
