Natural gas reticulation company Egoli Gas has been working closely with chemicals and energy company Sasol to ensure that its transition to methane-rich gas (MRG) in 2028 is seamless, with the move marking an important milestone in the evolution of Johannesburg’s energy landscape.

“For Egoli Gas and our customers, it means continuity and reliability of supply. No disruption to supply is expected and only minimal technical adjustments will be required for end-users where applicable,” says Egoli Gas GM Erika Da Cruz.

While Sasol’s experience in KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga demonstrates that MRG can be integrated safely and reliably into industrial, commercial and residential applications, it highlights the importance of early engagement with customers, clear communication on technical implications and staged rollouts to reduce disruption.

Importantly, Egoli Gas is applying these lessons in its own transition programme, adds Da Cruz, emphasising that preparation is central to its strategy.

She advises that the Egoli Gas pipeline network is well positioned for the transition, requiring only minor adjustments to operating parameters. The company has also already started assessing customer installations to ensure compatibility with MRG.

“Most customers’ domestic and commercial appliances and equipment will not require modification, but where necessary, Egoli Gas will provide technical support to ensure compatibility and safety. In rare instances where customers require high heat for smelting or blast furnaces, some technical adjustments may be required on equipment. Egoli Gas will leverage its strong relationships with original-equipment manufacturers and independent gas practitioners to assist customers technically, if such assistance is required.

“For customers, the transition will not compromise supply security but strengthen it by ensuring continuity of gas availability until liquefied natural gas becomes accessible post-2030. Pricing will continue to be regulated by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa and the City of Johannesburg (CoJ). While market factors always influence energy costs, Egoli Gas is committed to keeping gas a competitive and affordable option relative to alternative fuels,” elaborates Da Cruz.

The company is engaging with customers regularly to provide updates on any developments.

“Our approach is to make this a managed, transparent transition so customers can plan with confidence,” states Da Cruz.

Hybrid Solutions

While MRG represents a more sustainable and longer-term energy pathway for South Africa, hybrid systems represent the future of energy in the country. The shift to MRG, combined with the rise of hybrid energy solutions, presents an opportunity to reimagine how homes and businesses are powered.

Combining the reliability of natural gas with the sustainability of solar offers businesses and households a secure, low-carbon energy supply that reduces reliance on the grid.

Consequently, these systems provide resilience against loadshedding, lower emissions and engender long-term cost savings. Egoli Gas has implemented awareness campaigns across all its market segments informing customers of the seamless integration between gas and solar.

“The Rosebank Mall project is a flagship example of how hybrid energy solutions can transform commercial spaces. By integrating gas with solar PV, the mall has been able to significantly reduce its dependence on electricity, cut emissions and enhance energy security. Such projects are important proof points, showing hybrid systems are not just theoretical but commercially viable and scalable,” says Da Cruz.

She adds that MRG and hybrid solutions are essential steppingstones toward a lower-carbon, more resilient energy mix.

“They complement renewable energy by offering dispatchable, reliable power when solar or wind are not available. This aligns with South Africa’s Just Energy Transition pathway, by enabling economic growth while steadily reducing emissions.”

Egoli Gas operates across its reticulated network in Johannesburg – which supplies domestic, hospitality, healthcare and other users throughout the city – and regulated supply outside of Gauteng, including the Vaal and KwaZulu-Natal, where it serves larger customers.

These two arms allow Egoli Gas to play a critical role in the evolving energy landscape balancing household needs with industrial growth, while supporting the country’s energy transition, concludes Da Cruz.