The University of Cape Town has signed a long-term renewable electricity supply agreement with Discovery Green, becoming the first public university in South Africa to conclude a power purchase agreement with an energy trader.

Under the deal, Discovery Green will supply renewable energy to between 70% and 90% of UCT’s electricity needs at its main and health sciences campuses for just under a decade, starting in the third quarter of 2027.

The university expects the agreement to cut its carbon emissions by about 33,200 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent annually.

UCT Vice-Chancellor Mosa Moshabela said the agreement is a major step towards reducing the university’s carbon footprint while supporting research and skills development in the energy sector.

The partnership extends beyond electricity supply and includes funding for energy-related research and scholarships in engineering and actuarial science.

Both organisations say the agreement could serve as a model for other public institutions looking to participate in South Africa’s transition to renewable energy while improving energy security and sustainability.