Corruption and clean energy in South Africa: economic model shows trust in government is linked to takeup of renewables

Corruption and clean energy in South Africa: economic model shows trust in government is linked to takeup of renewables

By Roula Inglesi-Lotz, University of Pretoria South Africa relies heavily on energy from coal-fired power stations, which emit large quantities of carbon. But making the transition to greater use of renewable energies, such as solar, is being hampered by a number of factors. Chief among them is corruption, which is affecting the quality of institutions. In a recent paper I set out how perceptions of corruption in […]

February 19, 2024 5

Opinion Pieces

South Africa’s new plan to end power cuts is seriously flawed. Here’s why

By Hartmut Winkler, University of Johannesburg South Africa experienced unprecedented electricity shortages in 2023 as ageing coal plants became increasingly prone to breakdowns. The country urgently needs to develop new electricity generation facilities and reduce reliance on coal power. In the first week of 2024, the South African energy minister, Gwede Mantashe, released a proposed roadmap for the future of electricity in South Africa. Unfortunately, the draft Integrated Resource […]

January 11, 2024 5