South Africa’s Minister of Energy and Electricity, Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, is leading an ambitious and inclusive approach to the country’s Just Energy Transition, emphasizing the need for community involvement and international support. Speaking at the Future of Work (IFOW) seminar in Tshwane, Ramokgopa outlined the government’s vision to shift from a carbon-intensive economy to a green energy future while ensuring that all South Africans are informed and engaged.
The Minister of Energy highlighted the centrality of community consultation and education to the Just Energy Transition. He stressed that the government must provide clear information to communities and consider their perspectives as South Africa moves away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, and potentially nuclear power. “It’s essential that we democratize the conversation and involve communities in shaping the transition,” he said.
The transition plan involves significant changes, including gradually phasing out of Eskom’s coal-fired power stations. However, the current load-shedding crisis has necessitated a reevaluation of some transition milestones. Ramakgopa underscored that addressing climate change and reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels are critical goals for South Africa’s future.
The estimated cost of the transition is projected at R1.6 trillion over five years. Ramokgopa emphasized that this financial burden falls heavily on South Africa, which, due to its limited economic resources, will rely on financial support from developed nations. He pointed out that developed countries, which are largely responsible for historical greenhouse gas emissions, have a moral and ethical responsibility to assist in financing the transition. “The South African balance sheet cannot carry this alone; we need bespoke financing instruments and substantial support from the global community,” he stated.
Ramokgopa also discussed the potential role of nuclear power in South Africa’s energy mix. Although building new nuclear power stations would be a significant investment, he believes it could ultimately provide more affordable electricity, benefiting the country’s poorest communities in the long run.
As South Africa progresses with its green energy transition, Ramokgopa affirmed that the country will proceed at a manageable pace, ensuring that all steps are financially viable and inclusive. The Minister’s commitment to a just and equitable energy transition reflects a broader vision for a sustainable and resilient future for all South Africans.