The private sector remains an influential sector in energy savings in eThekwini, this is why earlier this week the municipality hosted an energy efficiency workshop for the business sector.

The Private Sector Energy Efficiency (PSEE) programme aims to improve energy efficiency in commercial and industrial companies in South Africa through the subsidised provision of free energy audits, energy training and other services to assist companies in identifying and implementing energy saving measures.

This comes after annual data gathered in the city showed that the commercial and industrial sectors are the largest energy consumers in eThekwini Municipality.

They account for 7.8 billion kilowatt-hours, which translates into approximately R7.8 billion.

PSEE good for business and the environment

Derek Morgan, Senior Manager of the Municipality’s Energy Office encouraged businesses in eThekwini to participate in the programme and take advantage of the funding available for energy efficiency audits.

He hopes that businesses in the City will form 10 percent of the national PSEE target.

Morgan added that the PSEE programme will not only benefit businesses reducing operational costs, but will also make an impact on the greenhouse gas emissions for the region and ultimately contribute to climate change mitigation.

This initiative is in line with national greenhouse gas reduction commitments and aligns with the Durban Climate Change Strategy.

PSEE National Programme Manager, Chisakula Kaputu said: “The PSEE programme offers valuable, ready to implement energy efficiency solutions with no costs to small and medium businesses and nominal costs for large companies.”

Kaputu added: “It is time for business to stop talking and start taking action as no-one wants to do business in the dark.”

He was pleased with the attendance and enthusiasm of businesses and was confident that this will translate into business committing and participating in the programme.