Archive: Renewable energy


Explainer Photograph of a man placing the charger in a white Nissan Leaf. Only his right arm and the right side of his body are in shot.

South Africa’s car manufacturing industry can remain a key contributor to the economy if it pivots to electric as soon as possible.

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 Aerial photograph of rooftop solar panels at sunset

Renewable energy investment could go a long way to filling the gaps caused by retiring coal-fired power plants and would reduce the need for load shedding.

News & Analysis Sunset photo of massive coal plant in Mpumalanga

South Africa’s cabinet has approved the $8.5 billion (R155 billion) plan to help the country transition away from fossil fuels.

News & Analysis Wide shot of generic coal power station spewing toxic chemicals into the air

Mpumalanga province is not typically known for wind and solar generation, but there are major advantages to encroaching on coal country.

News & Analysis Close-up of petrol pumps dispending Shell fuel. A white person's right arm in a purple sleeve is holding the pump on the left.

South Africans have welcomed another month of much-needed relief at the petrol pump. But, the diesel price per litre is reversing the trend and has become more expensive. Why?

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

Since 2003, the South African government has been funding free electricity for the poorest households. This is because it recognises that poverty is a barrier to electricity access.

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 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 An aerial view of many house in Mpumalanga province

This phase-down of coal will bring significant changes to South Africa. This makes the need for a just transition away from coal fundamental to ensure no one is left behind.

Explainer Electricity pylons against landscape

Coal’s dominance in South Africa’s electricity mix – totalling 90 per cent of electricity generation – means the rising price of coal is making bills more expensive.

Explainer Field of solar panels and wind turbines

The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) is the regulatory body for the country’s energy industries. It regulates the electricity, gas and petroleum pipeline industries.

Explainer Various glass tubes and bottles with liquids

Transportation has a significant impact on climate change, and biofuel could be one of the solutions.

Explainer Decommissioned power stations in Cape Town

South Africa’s Low Emission Development Strategy 2050 is the country’s most recent emissions reductions plan.

Explainer Engineer in industrial facility wearing high visibility jacket and safety helmet

Experts say that hydrogen is one answer to South Africa’s greenhouse gas emissions problem.

Explainer Blue and white infographic showing how hydrogen (H2) can power transportation and buildings

South Africa’s Low Emission Development Strategy 2050 is the country’s most recent emissions reductions plan.