Rapid Renewables Build-Out Strains Grids Globally

South Africa's renewable pipeline has surged, with the 2025 SAREGS showing many solar, wind and storage projects nearing readiness and the Northern Cape poised to receive the largest share of new capacity. The dominant challenge has shifted from simply securing grid connections to insufficient system and load flexibility — contracted renewable capacity in South Africa now exceeds what the grid can absorb, risking economic curtailment without stronger demand management and storage. That pattern reflects a broader global trend: the UN warns current national climate pledges would cut only about 10% of emissions by 2035, and solar supplied roughly 7% of global electricity in 2024 while accounting for the bulk of 2025 additions. Rapid renewables build-out is outpacing grid upgrades and causing operational strain from Europe to South Africa, and delivery shortfalls have appeared in the U.S. Analysts and operators say solutions include much more battery storage and grid‑forming technology, investments in system strength, and market redesign — such as forward contracts and combined long‑ and short‑term markets — plus policies that reward flexibility so utilities can recover costs while protecting consumers. Despite large wholesale cost declines for renewables, consumer bills have not automatically fallen and fossil‑fuel supply rose in 2024, underscoring that faster electrification and policy action are still needed to replace, not just add to, fossil generation.