At the International Infrastructure & Invest Convention, in Johannesburg, last month, South African Photo- voltaic Industry Association (Sapvia) board member Christopher Haw explained that a country’s success in renewable-energy projects depended on various aspects.
He stated that these aspects were good natural energy resources, a sophisticated financial sector and a high degree of local value, which means that renewable- energy projects must be developed in South Africa and feed the local economy – all of which South Africa either has, or has the ability to do.
Other aspects included a stable energy system for electricity distribution and transmission, although increased maintenance efforts were required. The country’s strong legal system and relatively stable political environment were also supported by sound regulation, incentives and subsidies.
But to improve the solar energy sector’s prospects, government should articulate the reasons for recent delays to the renewables programme to maintain market confidence. It should not only outline whether delays come from the projects or from government, but it should also continue to improve policies and strategies to achieve greater success.
Haw argued that it was also important to support smaller solar projects through the establishment of clear national policies on cost-recovery mechanisms for the electricity departments of municipalities, set clear renewable-energy targets for municipalities to adhere to and assist municipal engineers in implementing net metering.
The need for renewable-energy projects is evident from government’s long-term forecast for national power planning, which indicates a threefold increase in installed generation capacity by 2030, with more than a tenfold increase likely to provide full access to sustainable energy.
Efficient renewable energy is a fundamental requirement in addressing the challenges presented by climate change and economic growth. It is also essential in meeting the needs of rural communities.
Government’s Integrated Resource Plan 2010 aims for 56 539 MW power generation by 2030, divided among hydrocarbons (41.89%), nuclear energy (16.98%), pumped-storage energy (2.36%), cogene- ration own build (0.69%) and renewable energy (38.09%).
