DURBAN - eThekwini has been given the green light to cut its reliance on Eskom's beleaguered power grid.
Energy and Electricity Minister, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, approved the city's plans to develop its new energy generation capacity.
eThekwini is the first municipality to receive a Section 34 Ministerial Determination under the Energy and Electricity Act.
This allows the municipality to bypass Eskom and buy 400 megawatts directly from independent power producers.
eThekwini is home to about four million people and a hub for various industries which draw a lot of energy.
Over the years, all have felt the brunt of rolling blackouts Eskom's troubled power grid caused.
After years in the pipeline, the city can now diversify its energy generation to keep the lights on.
eNCA's Zanele Buthelezi has more.