Details of the US$8.5billion funding South Africa is set to receive to support the move to a just transition and a climate resilient economy haven’t been made public yet. Here’s what’s clear so far.
It’s now cheaper for Eskom to buy renewable energy from independent power producers than to run its coal power stations.
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To improve air quality, a combination of efforts is needed including reducing Eskom’s emissions, investing in cleaner sources of energy, and reducing emissions.
The state capture inquiry shows that South Africa’s parliament needs to urgently end the uncertainty about whether or not shadow directors are governed by the Companies Act.
For now, only those who can afford it will be able to escape the power cuts.
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The agency will ensure that large water users such as municipalities, public utilities and large companies continue to fund the construction and operation of the large water systems they depend on.
Failure by local government to provide basic services has led to protests around South Africa. Now, some residents are resorting to self-help.
EFE-EPA/Kim Ludbrook
South Africa needs a way to incorporate active citizens within the prevailing constitutional and legal structures, so as to strengthen all levels of government.
Using LED lights in schools can drastically reduce the rate of electricity usage and costs.
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The longer government dithers over how Eskom’s debt will be paid, the bigger the problem becomes. Whatever the decision, electricity customers and taxpayers will feel the pinch.
It’s more expensive to refuel a petrol vehicle than it is to charge an electric vehicle.
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South Africa’s well positioned to adopt electric vehicles but this isn’t a solution in itself because the vehicles would still depend on electricity generated from carbon-emitting coal power stations.
South Africa can’t afford new nuclear infrastructure with state funds in these times of budget shortfalls and ballooning debt.
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South Africa’s Integrated Resource Plan for Electricity reflects a global trend away from nuclear energy. But the government’s actions suggest otherwise.
South Africa envisages the gradual closure of older coal plants, mostly located in Mpumalanga. Can these coal fields be turned into renewable energy hubs?