POWER STRUGGLE
New energy era requires shift to nimble policies focused on demand
Outdated approach in Eskom’s coal-blackened clutches will have to be modified to accommodate renewables
There is speculation that the recent cabinet reshuffle that replaced the ministers of finance and energy, among others, was intended to open the way for the nuclear deal. Thankfully, this has been stalled. The simple reality is that, with the decline in demand and as the potential of renewable energy, energy efficiency and regional gas get realised, SA does not need a nuclear deal. However, the introduction of increasing amounts of renewable energy are forcing an energy policy rethink as a new paradigm emerges characterised by smaller, cleaner, more decentralised energy systems and more transparent governance and regulation, which are not popular with utilities such as Eskom which want to grow at any cost to the economies they are mandated to supply. These renewable energy and energy efficient resources are not yet optimally exploited because Eskom has control of procurement, despite attempts to promulgate an independent system and market operator. Without an independent operator Es...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.