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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.