Introduction:

Climate change is a global crisis that is affecting the entire world, and it is especially impacting developing countries like South Africa. The country has been experiencing the effects of climate change in the form of droughts, floods, and extreme weather conditions. These effects have significant implications for the country’s socio-economic development and its energy system. Therefore, this report aims to investigate climate change and the just energy transition in South Africa.

Climate Change in South Africa

South Africa is one of the world’s most carbon-intensive economies, with a high level of greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions come from several sectors, including electricity generation, transport, and industrial processes. The country’s reliance on coal-fired power plants for electricity generation contributes significantly to its carbon footprint. South Africa has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy, which requires a just energy transition.

The effects of climate change in South Africa have been severe, leading to droughts, heatwaves, and floods. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), South Africa is one of the countries that will experience significant warming in the future, leading to more frequent and severe climate extremes. These climate extremes will affect the country’s agricultural production, biodiversity, and water resources, leading to food insecurity and health risks.

Just Energy Transition in South Africa

A just energy transition is a transition that prioritizes social equity, human rights, and environmental sustainability. It requires a shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources while ensuring that all citizens have access to affordable and reliable energy services. A just energy transition also aims to create new job opportunities and promote economic growth in a sustainable manner.

South Africa has committed to a just energy transition and has developed policies and strategies to achieve this goal. The country’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) outlines the transition from coal-fired power plants to renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, and hydroelectric power. The IRP also includes measures to improve energy efficiency and reduce energy demand.

The just energy transition in South Africa faces several challenges, including the high cost of renewable energy technologies, the limited availability of financing, and the need for infrastructure upgrades. These challenges require innovative solutions, including partnerships between the public and private sectors and the use of innovative financing mechanisms.

The Role of Stakeholders in the Just Energy Transition

The just energy transition requires the participation of various stakeholders, including the government, civil society organisations, and the private sector. The government plays a critical role in providing policy and regulatory frameworks that promote renewable energy investment and deployment. Civil society organisations also play a vital role in advocating for the rights of marginalized communities and promoting public awareness of the benefits of renewable energy.

The private sector has a critical role in financing and investing in renewable energy projects. The South African Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program (REIPPPP) has attracted significant private sector investment in renewable energy projects. This program has also created jobs and promoted economic growth in the renewable energy sector.

Conclusion

In conclusion, climate change is a significant challenge facing South Africa, and a just energy transition is necessary to address this challenge. The country has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy. The just energy transition requires a shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources while ensuring social equity, human rights, and environmental sustainability. The government, civil society organisations, and the private sector all have a vital role to play in achieving a just energy transition in South Africa.

Dr Ric Amansure: Head of Communications, Fund- and Business Development