Dr. Zwanani Titus Mathe, CEO of the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI), pulled no punches in his recent keynote speech at the Southern African Energy Efficiency Conference. He identified the electricity sector as the leading contributor to carbon emissions in South Africa, closely followed by the transport sector.
In line with the conference’s primary theme of ‘Energy Efficiency in Sustainability and Developmental Goals,’ Mathe insisted that urgent action is crucial. “The real challenge is deciding where to start in our decarbonization efforts,” he noted.
According to a report by ESI Africa, Mathe underscored the pivotal role of energy efficiency in achieving a just energy transition. He explained that incorporating energy efficiency across the supply chain could significantly cut demand and emissions. “Through energy efficiency and demand management, we can positively impact reducing emissions and conserving electricity,” Mathe said.
Mathe also highlighted the untapped potential of communities like Mpumalanga to contribute to energy efficiency. He pointed out that small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) could provide in-home installation services for energy-efficient devices. Moreover, these SMMEs could manufacture essential components like smart metres locally, thereby aiding the transition to cleaner energy.
He further stressed that energy security should top the nation’s agenda, advocating for renovating existing assets such as coal power stations Kusile and Medupi and the Koeberg nuclear power plant. As Mathe mentioned, Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has already initiated efforts in this direction.
“We also need to invest in new capacities like solar power plants and wind farms,” he stated, adding that R&D in the budding hydrogen sector is equally crucial for future preparedness.
Despite government support and initiatives from state-owned entities like SANEDI, Mathe lamented the “disappointingly low” uptake of energy-efficient initiatives, even pointing out the shortcomings of Eskom’s own programme.
He expressed optimism that the SAEE conference would identify critical players capable of elevating these initiatives and enhancing public awareness. Mathe emphasized the importance of isolating the roadblocks stalling progress in energy efficiency. “Is the lag due to regulation, policy, or cost? Armed with this critical information, we can fine-tune our policies and improve our messaging,” he concluded.
The conference and Mathe’s poignant insights could serve as a launchpad for a more sustainable and efficient energy future for South Africa.
