Archive: Green economy


News & Analysis Array of rooftop solar panels

Evidence shows an additional 5 GW of renewable capacity could all but end load shedding and its associated socio-economic damage.

News & Analysis Electricity pylon and power plant air pollution

To address the power and climate crises, massive investments in transmission infrastructure and renewables are needed over the coming years.

Explainer Close-up of the side of a shiny white car. It has silver lettering on it spelling out the word "HYBRID".

The main difference between EVs and hybrid cars is how they are powered. An EV gets its power exclusively from electricity, while hybrid cars – as the name suggests – run on a mix.

Explainer Aerial view of solar panels

While fossil fuel prices soar, solar is the solution to affordable energy security, job creation and sustainable economic growth.

Explainer Floating icons of official national flags of the world

The Kyoto Protocol made history in 1997 as the first major international effort to slow climate change.

Explainer Row of electric vehicles and charging point

Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular. Here are the upfront and ongoing costs to expect if you make the shift.

Explainer An electric vehicle (EV) charging on a street

Lower running and maintenance costs mean EV ownership can prove an excellent investment, particularly as more affordable models become available.

Explainer Silhouette of coal mining tower against pink sky

Coal is the world’s dirtiest energy. A just transition from coal mining will profoundly benefit people and the environment.

Explainer Stock photo of a green plant growing out of a jar of money, to symbolise renewable energy funds

Renewable energy funds are a vital tool for South Africa’s green energy transition. They can pay for everything from infrastructure upgrades to mine rehabilitation.

Explainer Electricity pylons at sunset

Energy is essential for the functioning of any modern economy. South Africa’s Central Energy Fund (CEF) does the vital job of maintaining that energy supply.

Explainer Single story houses and trees in a rural South African community

Rural development is vital for South Africa’s sustainable economic future. The farming sector is perhaps the most important, as food security and poverty reduction depend on it.

Explainer Photograph of a small green plant growing out of a jar of coins

COP26 saw South Africa make a public commitment to greening its economy. But, can non-renewable resources be part of this transition?

Explainer Wind turbine on a landscape of grass and trees

Our fossil fuel energy system comes at a massive cost. Climate change is causing extreme temperatures, drought and catastrophic flooding.

Explainer Aerial photo of Cape Town lit up at night

While waiting for government measures to be implemented, many businesses are taking control of their own energy security through investment in solar.

Explainer Photo of Gwede Mantaste, Soutb Africa's Minister for the Department Minerals and Energy Resources

The mission of the Department of Energy is to “regulate and transform the sector for the provision of secure, sustainable and affordable energy”.

Explainer Wind farm in front of blue sky, South Africa

Like many countries worldwide, South Africa has committed to reaching net zero by 2050. To achieve this, the country will need to invest heavily in renewables, including wind energy.

Explainer Solar panels power a building in Cape Town, South Africa.

With the roll out of solar panels globally, solar energy is increasing in popularity as an alternative, renewable source of energy. In South Africa, this is no different.

Explainer Hydrogen recharging station

A fuel cell uses chemical energy from fuels, like hydrogen, propane or diesel, to produce electricity. Fuel cells can use a wide range of fuels and have a wide range of applications.

Explainer Hydrogen powered silver car in showroom

Hydrogen is gaining international attention as a potential green alternative to fossil fuels. This is because hydrogen can be “green” when produced using renewable sources.

Explainer Rooftop solar panels on flat roof in urban area

South Africa suffers from crippling power outages, locally known as load shedding. In the first three months of 2021, load shedding occurred for 650 hours.