South Africa is among the world’s least energy efficient countries in terms of its economy.

Minister of Energy Tina Joemat-Peterson told delegates the uncomfortable truth about South Africa’s energy efficiency at the 2016 African Utilities Week.

The conference kicked off yesterday, playing host to more than 6000 power and water professionals from more than 70 countries, including 27 African nations.

According to Joemat-Peterson, the country’s economy is very energy intensive and accounts for approximately 40% of Africa’s total electricity usage. In addition to this, South Africa is the 11th highest emitter of greenhouse gasses in the world.

“We clearly have to address this issue as a matter of responsible citizenry and in line with our Constitutional obligations. That being said, I am happy and convinced that the strides achieved to date on climate change are demonstrating our commitment to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions,” the minister told delegates.

 

Energy efficiency

Globally, energy efficiency is recognised as the most cost effective way to supply energy, stated the minister. “As Government we have put energy efficiency as a key element of our energy mix to address energy security matters.”

The Department of Energy (DoE) intends to complete its next strategy by the end of this financial year. Here the department aims for increased targets on the reduction in the national energy consumption by 2030. The DoE will be embarking on a consultation process with all the stakeholders in this regard.

“To support the effectiveness of the National Energy Efficiency Strategy, we have published the regulations for compulsory energy management plans. I need to emphasise that we will continue to focus on improving energy efficiency in buildings with a particular focus on household appliances. We, therefore, encourage all stakeholders to play a positive role in saving energy.”

 

Save Energy campaign

Joemat-Peterson went on to announce the official rollout of the national ‘Save Energy’ campaign.

The campaign aims to create awareness about the significant role that energy efficient buildings can play in reducing the demand on energy, saving a scarce resource, creating small enterprises, upskilling people and growing the economy.

In 2016 the focus will be on large public and private buildings, including retail complexes and the property market, large residential and corporate developments.

 

African Utility Week

African Utility Week addresses the latest challenges, developments and opportunities in the power and water sectors: ranging from generation, T&D, metering, clean energy, finance and investment, water supply and energy efficiency.

“There’s no doubt that renewable energy as well as smart technology are changing the way power and water utilities operate and deal with their customers” says Evan Schiff, event director for African Utility Week. 

“We will once again showcase many success stories in clean energy as well as new innovations for the sector, look at bankable power projects, and energy storage will be discussed as a possible game changer for energy independence. We also have a strong focus on water this year, including the water-energy nexus, water efficiency and wastewater management.”

The event features 250 exhibitors, 250 speakers, a six stream strategic conference, technical workshops, high-profile keynote sessions, and technical site visits.