KEYPOINTS
- South Africa spent R17 billion on renewable energy imports in 2024.
- Imported materials include solar panels, inverters, and lithium batteries.
- Officials emphasize the need to boost local production to reduce costs.
Esi Africa stated that in the first nine months of 2024, South Africa spent more than R17 billion importing renewable energy materials, including solar panels, inverters and lithium-ion batteries.
South Africa’s renewable energy imports reach R17 billion in 2024
Deputy Minister of Energy and Electricity Samantha Graham-Maré announced the figure Friday, Nov. 8, as part of the government’s push to expand the renewable energy sector, create local jobs and stimulate economic growth.
Graham-Maré said South Africa is on the verge of a transformative moment. “This massive demand for renewable energy solutions presents a clear opportunity to address energy access and affordability while generating substantial economic growth.
“By unlocking the potential of local manufacturing and skills development, we will reduce our reliance on imports, create jobs, and ensure that South Africa’s energy transition is a win for our economy and our people,” she said.
Graham-Maré said the current high level of energy imports underscores an urgent need to accelerate South Africa’s renewable energy sector and increase local production of renewable energy technology.
She added that the government is moving swiftly to implement the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM), which aims to expand local manufacturing of renewable energy components and create jobs.
Government emphasizes local manufacturing to reduce reliance on imports
“Advancing SAREM will create a sustainable local manufacturing base in key industries where South Africa has a competitive advantage, helping to stimulate job creation nationwide,” Graham-Maré said. “This is an essential step toward achieving affordable and accessible energy, reducing our carbon footprint, and promoting long-term economic growth.”
According to Esi Africa, the deputy minister also emphasized government plans to prioritize skills development and workforce training to prepare South Africans for jobs in the growing renewable energy industry.
“The renewable energy sector is poised to become one of the largest drivers of economic growth and job creation in South Africa,” Graham-Maré said. “We are ready to capitalize on this opportunity, and the time for action is now. By unlocking local manufacturing and creating a thriving green economy, we will build the foundation for a prosperous future for South Africa.”
