South Africa Eyes Cleaner, Affordable Energy Through New Technologies And Solar Power

South Africa is advancing its energy strategy by adopting innovative technologies to produce cleaner and more affordable electricity, according to Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Minister of Electricity and Energy. Speaking in Beijing during the South Africa-China Business Forum, Ramokgopa revealed that the country is shifting from traditional, expensive wired electricity systems to harnessing abundant solar and wind resources. The Minister noted that South Africa can learn from Huawei’s expertise in energy modernization and storage solutions, which could help deliver electricity to remote areas more cost-effectively.

The Minister emphasized the potential of solar photovoltaic (PV) and wind energy to address challenges related to energy access and availability. By leveraging these renewable resources, South Africa aims to reduce reliance on costly energy imports and enhance its commitment to decarbonisation as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC). The new approach also promises to improve energy affordability, support industrialisation, and create jobs through local manufacturing of solar PV components and batteries.

Ramokgopa also reported progress in the country’s energy recovery, stating that South Africa’s energy generation system is in a better state than a year ago. The government aims to bolster economic growth by improving energy infrastructure and ensuring reliable electricity supply, which is crucial for supporting economic development and achieving the target growth rate of 3% in the next few years.