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 9.6 tonnes of CO2 per inhabitant per year, a very high level for an emerging economy, almost matching that of Germany (ca. 10t) and significantly higher than other emerging economies such as Brazil (1.8t), Turkey (3.6t) or Mexico (4.1t). Among the reasons accounting for the high level of emissions are low electricity tariffs and less stringent emissions standards, which attract heavy industry and mining. They consume more than 50% of the electricity.

Development Cooperation

Climate and energy have therefore been a priority area in German Development Cooperation with South Africa since 2008. Several financial and technical cooperation programmes have been launched, supporting the South African Government to achieve its ambitious targets in the fields of climate change, renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Financial support is being provided to the ESKOM Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plant and via DBSA and IDC to investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency in municipalities and the private sector.

Technical cooperation supports the South African government in improving the framework conditions and implementing support programmes for a climate-friendly restructuring of the South African economy, in addition to promoting skills development for green jobs. Special emphasis is put on climate policy, renewable energy as well as energy efficiency. Read More…

Pictures: © PICTURE ALLIANCE / DPA