NTCSA has launched a transformative initiative to prepare and accredit future market participants:

As South Africa prepares for a more competitive and liberalised electricity market, the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) has launched a foundational initiative to prepare and accredit future market participants: the SAWEM School.

Set to commence in July 2025, the SAWEM School is a structured, immersive programme that provides both theoretical and practical exposure to the workings of the South African Wholesale Electricity Market (SAWEM). The programme will run over three days per month and is specifically designed to prepare stakeholders for active participation in the market when it goes live.

“SAWEM School is your launchpad into the competitive electricity market!” – Keith Bowen, Senior Manager: Market Operations NTCSA.

The success of a liberalised electricity market depends not only on robust systems and regulation but also on a well-prepared and knowledgeable participant base. SAWEM School addresses this by offering:

  • A deep understanding of market roles and responsibilities
  • Practical guidance on gate closure, dispatch, and balancing mechanisms
  • Insights into financial settlement, credit requirements, and risk management
  • Real-world simulations and case studies facilitated by NTCSA experts

SAWEM School is specifically designed for individuals and entities intending to participate in SAWEM from go-live (April 2026), including:

  • Prospective applicants to SAWEM Market Operator systems
  • Independent Power Producers (IPPs)
  • Energy Traders
  • Regulators
  • Aggregators and Energy Service Providers
  • Retailers
  • Large Industrial or Commercial Consumers
  • Municipalities
  • Balancing Responsible Parties
  • Market Analysts and Advisors
  • Investors

In line with the Market Code and the NTCSA’s commitment to system integrity and participant readiness, only individuals who have successfully completed the SAWEM School and received accreditation will be eligible to participate in the SAWEM market.

This applies to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), aggregators, traders, large customers, and other entities wishing to operate within the market framework.

“Our priority is to ensure that all market participants are both capable and compliant. SAWEM School plays a critical role in achieving that.” – Keith Bowen

The curriculum is delivered through expert instruction, case studies, and interactive simulation. Key learning areas include:

  • Market Structure and Governance
  • Roles of Participants (BRP, Scheduling Agent, etc.)
  • Registration and Credit Requirements
  • Market Timelines and Gate Closure
  • Balancing and Settlements
  • Compliance and Risk Management
  • Trading Platforms and Market Interface Systems
  • Participant Onboarding Process

SAWEM School runs monthly 3-day sessions in various regions.

Date                                          Location                                                            

29 – 31 July 2025                     Wits University                               

26 – 28 August 2025                University of Cape Town                        

16 – 18 September 2025          To Be Announced                              

28 – 30 October 2025               Kwa – Zulu Natal             

25 – 27 November 2025            Gauteng                                             

January – March 2026              To Be Announced

Disclaimer: NTCSA reserves the right to change or cancel training dates without prior notice, subject to venue availability and participant demand. No liability will be accepted for any resulting loss or inconvenience.

Register here

A non-refundable registration fee is payable.

For more information regarding the SAWEM School, please email: [email protected]