After 30 years of democracy, South Africa is in a deep electricity crisis which can only be solved if the government moves speedily to set up solar and wind plants.
Small shops like this one in Vilanculos, Mozambique experience regular power cuts.
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Mozambique has large gas reserves and a big hydropower generating dam. It exports 90% of this electricity, leaving small businesses facing frequent power cuts and disrupting their work.
If South Africa wants to keep its tourism wheels turning, reliable, renewable energy is key.
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South Africa could end power blackouts if it implemented a plan to balance renewable energy capacity, time-of-use tariffs and ended the power utility’s monopoly.
Keep as little food as possible in your fridge and freezer.
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South Africa’s minister of finance should have used the bailout of Eskom to fast-track its split and introduce the private sector into the electricity sector.
A view of Johannesburg’s Braamfontein district seconds after a scheduled power cut.
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Very little attention has been paid to the justice implications of electricity distribution.
South Africans are taking their power supply into their own hands with backup systems that don’t rely on power utility Eskom.
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Soheil Mohseni, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington et Alan Brent, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington
National electricity grids are vulnerable to extreme weather events and can leave entire regions without power. Microgrids can deliver better energy security in a warming world.
Solar powered water heaters on rooftops above shacks in the Alexandra township in Johannesburg, South Africa.
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International experience suggests South Africa can benefit by focusing on a simple restructuring of its power utility, allowing well-run state-owned entities to flourish.
South Africa is likely to see more renewably sourced energy come onto the grid more quickly.
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