A combined minerals and energy ministry could work — in theory
SA’s anachronistic coal dependence will need to be addressed, as will investors in coal who have shaped the country’s energy path
Having recently argued against the recombination of departments of minerals resources and energy, it is now necessary to argue why it does not have to be a bad thing — at least in theory.
The separation of the two portfolios more than a decade ago did not immediately produce positive outcomes for capacity within the department of energy, or for development of a long-term vision, while the departments of minerals resources was well-resourced and became increasingly opportunistic and short-sighted. The department of energy did get a reasonable National Energy Act adopted in 2008, initiated promising processes for integrated planning, and started looking beyond fossil-fuel supply strategies, but over the past five years has made little positive national contribution...
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.