Energy and Climate

Situation at the outset

A key role for the country’s future development is the issue of energy and climate change.

An economy dependent on coal. In the international dialogue on climate change, South Africa is an important partner. In worldwide climate discussions the country has signalled its readiness to commit to emission reduction goals for its coal-based energy industry. However, its abundance of coal induces inefficient electricity use and is a major source of severe pollution. Besides, South Africa has neglected modernisation investments for years, putting its electricity security at risk.

High CO2 emissions. Coal combustion releases 8.7 tonnes of CO2 per inhabitant per year, a very high level for an emerging economy, almost matching that of Germany (9.6t) and significantly higher than other emerging economies such as Brazil (1.8t), Turkey (3.6t) or Mexico (4.1t). Even though, low electricity tariffs and less stringent emissions standards attract heavy industry and mining. They consume more than 50% of the electricity.

Development Cooperation

Climate and energy have therefore been a priority area of cooperation in German Development Cooperation (DC) with South Africa since 2008. There is potential for cooperation particularly in the field of renewable energies, but also in energy efficiency in the industrial and the transport sector.

Advice and training. Advice and cooperation in improving the institutional framework, in the diverse aspects of emissions trading, and in climate change adaptation are integral parts of German DC. This also applies to basic and advanced training of professionals in this field.