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Friday, 22 November 2024: Current zero buyers with active meters have been granted an extension to update their meters to be KRN2 (Key Revision Number 2) compliant beyond the 24 November 2024 deadline. A technological breakthrough has enabled Eskom to pre-create Key Change Tokens (KCT) on its online vending system. Zero buyers in this situation...
President Ramaphosa concludes inaugural PICC under 7th administration
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the seventh administration has prioritised its commitment to scale up investment in infrastructure, as government seeks to boost the economy, create jobs, improve access to basic services, and the quality of life for citizens.
President Ramaphosa said this at the conclusion of the inaugural Presidential Infrastructure Commission Council (PICC) under the seventh administration.
The council convened to discuss, amongst others, a plan on dealing with crime and extortion at construction sites, the level of implementation of priority infrastructure projects and programmes, as well as strategic initiatives that are being developed to accelerate the pace and quality of infrastructure investments in the country.
“This administration has prioritised scaling up investment in infrastructure, as we seek to grow the economy, create more jobs, improve access to basic services, and improve the quality of life of our citizens.
“Continuing the work of the sixth administration, we are working to involve the private sector in achieving our infrastructure development goals. It is encouraging that after a period of declining infrastructure spend, public sector capital expenditure is on the rise for the second straight year.
“According to Statistics South Africa, last year, public sector institutions had a combined capital expenditure of R233 billion. This is an 11% increase on the previous year,” President Ramaphosa said.
The council is constituted by the President, Deputy President, Ministers designated by the President, Premiers of provinces, Executive Mayors of metropolitan councils and the chairperson of the South African Local Government Association.
Per the Infrastructure Development Act, the Council is tasked with, inter alia:
Implementation of Strategic Integrated Projects
The council noted that there are 19 completed Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPs) valued at R26 billion.
Of these projects, six are in transport, three in water and sanitation, one in energy, four in human settlements and five in student accommodation.
Currently, 82 projects, valued at R437 billion, are in construction.
In addition to providing technical assistance and resources to help project sponsors prepare comprehensive business cases, ensuring they are economically viable and socially beneficial, Infrastructure South Africa (ISA) has played a pivotal role in supporting project sponsors to expedite approvals, authorisations, licences, permissions and exemptions with the relevant authorities.
Over 654 requests for regulatory unblocking were lodged with ISA between 2020 and 2024. To date, 497 approvals have been granted and 157 are currently in progress.
The total project value of SIP projects gazetted between 2020 and 2024 has grown to R3 trillion, with the key drivers being the Eskom Programme (SIP 8, 9 and 10), the Embedded Generation National Programme and the Green Hydrogen National Programme (SIP 20E).
Aiding municipalities
The council agreed that there is a need to enhance the Municipal Infrastructure Service Delivery Model using ISA’s methodology, which emphasises project preparation using the Five-Case Model, which is planning and prioritisation, development of business cases, mobilisation of funds from private and public sectors, implementation of innovative solutions and effective monitoring.
This model will be piloted in four local municipalities and leverage external resources and technical capacity stemming from local and international partners.
The following four municipalities will benefit from the “Adopt a Municipality” pilot initiative: Govan Mbeki Local Municipality in Mpumalanga, Kagisano-Molopo Local Municiapity in the North West, Umngeni Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal and Metsemaholo Local Municipality in the Free State.
This initiative, spearheaded by ISA, will address critical service delivery challenges, including persistent incomplete projects and infrastructure issues. ISA aims to drive urgent improvements over the next 24 months, with some projects being completed during this timeframe. ISA will hold further consultations on the next cohort of municipalities to be added to the initiative.
Crime and Extortion on Construction Sites
The council has lauded the contribution of the construction industry to job growth in the second and third quarters.
According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey released by Statistics South Africa earlier this month, the construction sector added 176 000 jobs, playing a pivotal role in reducing the national unemployment rate by 1.4% in the third quarter.
The council said the construction industry is vital for socio-economic development, employment and infrastructure improvement.
"Crime and extortion on construction sites must be condemned in the strongest possible terms," the council said, while welcoming efforts by the police in addressing criminal and extortion cases.
The council further noted that there is an indication of increasing trends in criminal activities on construction sites, despite government's efforts to embed social facilitation and involve law enforcement. Effective mitigation will require coordinated efforts from all stakeholders.
The council has made the following recommendations on the matter:
Programme of Action for the PICC Council in the 7th administration
The PICC Council has identified eight pathways to driving infrastructure investment and growth in the next five years.
These pathways will underpin the infrastructure investment plan of the 7th administration.
The eight pathways include:
Pathway 1: Institutional Coordination
Affirming Infrastructure South Africa as a single point of entry for priority infrastructure projects.
Pathway 2: Centralised Planning and Prioritisation
Establish a gateway mechanism for projects and programme that are deemed strategic/catalytic.
Pathway 3: Budget Reforms
Accelerate the implementation of broader reforms to enable infrastructure investment.
Pathway 4: Address Regulatory Bottlenecks
Streamline regulatory and approval processes to fast-track implementation of infrastructure projects.
Pathway 5: Municipal Bulk Infrastructure
Address funding and financing of municipal bulk infrastructure.
Pathway 6: Unlocking other sources of funding
Increase and diversify sources of funding for both project preparation and infrastructure funding & financing.
Pathway 7: Economic Regulation in Construction
Strengthen regulatory framework governing construction industry.
Pathway 8: Cancellation of Tenders, Social Unrest, Damage to Infrastructure and Crime
Improving governance of infrastructure projects and ensure close collaboration with law enforcement agencies. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Fri, 11/22/2024 - 11:01
EAST LONDON: For Faye Tunnicliffe, the journey back to the Proteas Women’s T20 International (T20I) squad has been anything but...
Hundreds of Durban residents showed up at the venue on Thursday but the room could only host about 100 people.
The Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy received a briefing on the Just Energy Transition (JET) Investment Plan and Implementation Plan from the Presidency's Project Management Office and the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy.
It was taken through the different investment portfolios within the plan, including details on the progress and financing secured to date. The plan outlined an investment of approximately R1.5 trillion over five years to support the country's decarbonisation efforts.
The committee raised concerns about the impacts on workers and communities affected by the energy transition, particularly the lessons learned from the Komati power station closure, and the need to ensure a truly just transition. Members of the committee also queried South Africa's continued reliance on coal, export of coal, and the potential role of clean coal technologies.
Members of the committee also questioned whether the transition will jeopardise reliable electricity supply, calling for the JET process to be aligned with and supportive of South Africa's broader industrialisation and economic development objectives. They stressed the need to build local manufacturing and skills capacity to support the renewable energy and green economy value chains.
The department was requested by the committee for regular updates on progress and engagement on the JET implementation. The committee acknowledged the complexity and importance of managing South Africa's energy transition in a just and equitable manner, emphasising the need for continuous engagement and oversight to ensure the JET plan delivers on its objectives.
The committee commended the presenters on the involvement of communities and workers, but it cautioned against using the term "poor" to refer to affected communities. Members of the committee stressed the importance of empowering local institutions and skills development from the grassroots level, rather than relying on externally driven initiatives.
The committee also expressed concerns about the weaponising of climate change legislation by developed countries, which could disadvantage South Africa's economy and trade. It stressed the need to ensure the JET process supports the country's broader industrialisation and economic development goals.
Members of the committee highlighted the need to hear directly from the affected communities. They also proposed a site visit to Mpumalanga to engage with local stakeholders.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
SA sets sights on industrialisation opportunities presented by decarbonisation
South Africa is making the most of the available opportunities to drive industrialisation through global decarbonisation efforts, says Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau.
Tau on Wednesday led a team of officials from the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (dtic) to a joint briefing session of Parliament’s Portfolio Committees on Trade and Industry and Science, Technology and Innovation. The aim of the session was to engage on South Africa’s Green Hydrogen Commercialisation Strategy and the White Paper on Electric Vehicles.
Tau told the Members of the Portfolio Committee that South Africa has committed itself to reducing greenhouse gas emission, as envisaged in the national Just Energy Transition. Above its own contributions to reduce emissions, South Africa has partnered with the rest of the world to decarbonise.
Tau said South Africa has to decarbonise its own economy but also position itself to commercially benefit from the global shift to greener technologies.
“Green hydrogen presents an opportunity to export natural resources such as sunshine and wind, which South Africa has in abundance.
“The global demand for green hydrogen presents ample industrialisation opportunities not only for South Africa but for other African countries, so we need to collaborate and integrate efforts to drive the industrialisation agenda for the continent as a whole.
“The speed with which we move will determine whether we are able to take full advantage of the transition or we are left behind,” he said.
Linked to decarbonisation efforts is the worldwide move to electric vehicles, which Tau described as advancing at a fast pace.
Through the White Paper on Electric Vehicles and support for the automotives industry, South Africa is embracing the transition and adapting its Automotive Strategy to current global trends.
The White Paper on Electric Vehicles outlines a commitment to ensuring that the transition is not just about decarbonisation but is also leveraged for growth by deepening the automotive value chain, fostering local industry growth, and aligning with economic priorities, the approach aims to be pro-growth and pro-investment.
Regarding the carbon intensity of the South African economy, Tau indicated that government is cognisant of the fact that some of the measures, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism introduced by the European Union, do require that the country challenge them at the level of the World Trade Organisation, as they likely to have a negative impact on economic growth efforts. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 11/20/2024 - 15:21
Call for collaboration to use technological innovations to address sanitation challenges
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has called for enhanced collaboration between government, the private sector and civil society to use technological innovations to help tackle the sanitation-related challenges experienced in parts of the country.
Mahlobo made the call at the Next Generation Water-Efficient Sanitation Technologies Investment Summit held in Sandton, Johannesburg, on Tuesday.
The summit, which coincided with World Toilet Day, was hosted by the Water Research Commission (WRC) in conjunction with South African Sanitation Technology Enterprise Programme (SASTEP) to highlight the various innovative solutions for sustainable sanitation and water security.
Mahlobo called for the investment of sanitation infrastructure and technological improvements to address sanitation challenges.
“We need significant investments in modern sanitation infrastructure and creative, forward-thinking solutions. Together, we can drive the change required to overcome the challenges in the sanitation sector,” Mahlobo said.
Mahlobo acknowledged the WRC for its contribution in initiating innovative projects geared towards finding alternative sanitation solutions.
The innovations include, among others, the aptly-termed Next Generation Sanitation Technologies which will not only address the basic human right to sanitation but also align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives.
Mahlobo said the reinvented toilets will offer significant advantages over traditional sanitation methods such as water-efficient and energy-neutral systems, which drastically reduce the environmental footprint of sanitation infrastructure.
The reinvented toilets will also safely treat human waste without the need for conventional sewage systems, protecting communities from waterborne diseases and can be deployed in schools, clinics, and public spaces where sanitation infrastructure is often inadequate.
“Furthermore, adding to the technological innovations, the Department of Water and Sanitation has developed the National Faecal Sludge Management Strategy.
“The strategy is aimed at providing guidance to the sector on safe management of faecal sludge to enhance operation and maintenance of on-site sanitation systems, prevent groundwater contamination, safeguard public health, and protect the environment from pollution throughout the sanitation service chain,” Mahlobo said.
More work to be done to bring dignified sanitation services
While noting significant progress made towards addressing the sanitation backlog and providing appropriate sanitation to poor households since 1994, Mahlobo said much more work still needs to be done to bring about more dignified sanitation services to the communities.
Through government and stakeholders’ efforts, the number of households with access to proper sanitation has improved by 22.4% between 2002 and 2021, an increase from 61.7% to 84.1%, with most improvement made in Eastern Cape and Limpopo provinces.
“Despite the notable work, we do admit as government that we need to keep our sleeves rolled up to ensure that all citizens of this country get to experience the pleasure of dignified sanitation facilities,” Mahlobo said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Wed, 11/20/2024 - 10:56
Eskom reaches no load shedding milestone
Eskom has reached a new milestone having recorded its longest stretch of not implementing load shedding in five years.
South Africa has not experienced planned rolling blackouts since 26 March this year.
Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, told a media briefing that this is an indication that government’s Energy Action Plan, coupled with Eskom’s Generation Recovery Plan, is showing resilience.
“This means two things: load shedding is still an area that requires intervention. I have said that at the right time, when we are meant to call it, we’ll [say] its over but I’m not in a position to make that firm pronouncement.
“The second message this conveys is that the interventions are resilient. By that I mean that even if you have a cluster of units failing, the system is able to carry itself without us having to resort to load shedding. That’s important because it means that we have built some degree head space to allow for incidents where clusters of units fail,” he said.
The Minister emphasised that although the interventions are bearing fruit, “we want to sustain this momentum”.
“The system is performing exceptionally well. It is exceeding our own expectations.
“We have been able to drastically reduce the amount of megawatts that are not available at any given time. In the comparable period, we were sitting at about 16 400MW not available at any given time and now we are averaging about 11 235MW.
“There’s an improvement of that 5000MW of the same period last year. From an Energy Availability Factor, this marks an improvement of about 7.3%,” he said.
Ramokgopa highlighted that Eskom has spent at least R15 billion less than last year.
“That’s significant going into the future because these savings are going to be factored into the cost of electricity supply. So going into the future we’ll know that the primary energy, we were able to reduce that cost by R15 billion.
“We are doing this as we maintain the health of the system. We are not compromising on our planned maintenance so in terms of our summer outlook, we are at about 6900MW of planned maintenance,” he said.
Draft Integrated Resource Plan 2023 (IRP 2023)
Ramokgopa told the media briefing that in terms of the Draft IRP 2023 stakeholder engagements, some 4338 public comments have been received while three rounds of public consultations and at least 26 other virtual and in-person engagements with civil society, industry, academia and government entities took place.
“Of these 4000 plus comments, 136 of these were substantive. There are people who were challenging a number of aspects or making suggestions on how best we can improve this model,” he said.
The Draft IRP is described by the department as South Africa’s electricity generation plan which lays out plans to ensure security of electricity supply by balancing supply with demand, while taking into account the environment and total cost of supply.
“Then next step is that we are deepening that conversation. So we are not [re]starting the public consultation…we are going back to those people who made those substantive submissions having done some degree of revision on the back of the submissions that we have received.
“We will have a physical engagement some time next week and we will have the targeted engagements. We will then consolidate those inputs,” he said.
A report emanating from consolidated inputs will then be tabled before Cabinet which will make a final decision on the plan. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 11/20/2024 - 14:19
Government considers intervention in Eskom electricity tariff hike application
Government is preparing to present an intervention regarding Eskom’s proposed tariff hike.
This according to Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who briefed the media on Wednesday.
The power utility has asked the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) to approve its multi-year price determination which would mean, for direct Eskom customers, a 36.15% electricity tariff hike for 2025/26, an 11.81% increase in 2026/27 and a 9.10% rise in 2027/28 – sharply bringing into focus electricity affordability and upping the cost of living.
Nersa is currently holding public hearings on Eskom’s application.
“As government, we will be fashioning interventions to ensure that we provide relief. It’s still a process that is underway inside government. Before Nersa makes that determination, we’d have made our submissions.
“I want to say – with a degree of confidence – that we will get to a situation where we don’t realise a 36, 40% tariff increase. It should be something significantly lower than that. [This will be] taking into account the need for the industry to be competitive; the pressures that the households are experiencing,” he said.
The Minister reminded South Africans that the seventh administration has committed to ensuring that “we fight poverty and reduce the cost of living”.
“We know that the cost of utilities – electricity and water – is a big component of the spending of households and in fact, it’s more disproportionate when you get to low income households.
“I want to say to the country that: rest assured, we will be making interventions that will provide significant amount of relief. What that percentage [tariff increase] that will be, Nersa will make that determination,” he said.
Ramokgopa insisted that despite government’s intervention, “we will not undermine the ability of Eskom to continue to operate”.
“Some of the assumptions and basis of the application of Eskom has got some justification.
“[However] we think we can do both…Eskom’s ability to execute on its mandate and on the other side, the need for us to provide some degree of relief to households and industry. I am confident, we can find that,” he said.
The Minister implored South Africans to continue making their voices heard at Nersa’s public hearings on Eskom’s proposed tariff increases.
Public hearings continue as follows:
“What is important is that all of us…let’s subject ourselves to the [Nersa hearings]. So that we allow Nersa the opportunity to have the benefit of the mulitiplicity of views,” Ramokgopa said.
Nersa’s decision on Eskom’s application is expected to only be made on 20 December this year. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 11/20/2024 - 12:06
Lamola urges global citizens to hold G20 leaders accountable
By Gabisile Ngcobo
Rio de Janeiro- International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola says global citizens must hold the leaders of the Group of 20 (G20) accountable.
This comes after various declarations and commitments were made during the summit that opened on Monday in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The first day of the G20 Leaders’ Summit came to an end on Monday, with important results for the future of the planet and crucial commitments such as the fight against hunger, sustainable development and the taxation of billionaires.
“Each of them was speaking and committing. I think the people of the world will have to make the leaders accountable for their commitments that are being made at the G20.
“They will be a platform next year in South Africa to take stock of the commitments of how far the world has progressed,” he told the South African media.
In their G20 declaration, the leaders said they remain resolute in their dedication to fighting hunger, poverty, and inequality, promoting sustainable development in its economic, social, and environmental dimensions, and reforming global governance.
They also acknowledged that what was needed was a political will to create conditions to expand access to food and welcomed the launch of the Global Alliance against Hunger and Poverty under Brazil’s G20 Presidency.
Meanwhile, the document referred to the “catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza and the escalation in Lebanon,” and highlighted the urgent need to expand humanitarian assistance and reinforce the protection of civilians.
They also touched on the war in Ukraine, stressing the human suffering and the negative impact it has on global food and energy security, supply chains, macro-financial stability, inflation and growth.
The leaders also committed to scaling up urgent action to address challenges posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, desertification, ocean and land degradation, drought and pollution.
This prominent gathering of world leaders pledged to work for a reinvigorated and strengthened multilateral system, rooted in the United Nations Charter and International Law, with renewed institutions and reformed governance that is more representative and reflect the realities of the 21st century.
Lamola strongly believes the commitments made will be fulfilled.
“As you’re aware, we continue to look for the implementation of the Paris Agreement on climate change and the people of the world must do the same and we’ll ensure that there’s implementation on what is committed.”
South Africa’s G20
Brazil will hand over the reins this afternoon as South Africa is set to assume the Chair of the G20 from Brazil on 1 December with the preparations to host the summit next year currently underway.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency will focus on solidarity, equality, and sustainability.
He told the media that the country will also have a sharp focus on artificial intelligence (AI), including innovation for Africa.
The Minister described AI and innovation as crosscutting in various sectors and believed they could help “leapfrog” the African continent to par with developed countries.
In addition, he said the country’s G20 Presidency will also zoom into the Pact of the Future which was adopted by the world leaders at the Summit of the Future in September this year.
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted this pact that aims to make the organisation more relevant and effective on the global stage in the 21st century.
“Indeed, the agenda is loaded but we believe from the declaration read here in Brazil will be able to build a consensus and also shine the spotlight on the number of issues for the Global South and African continent and the marginalised people of the world,” Lamola said.
Meanwhile, the Minister said the value of hosting the G20 Leaders’ Summit far surpasses any amount injection into the gross domestic product (GDP) and spoke about the boom in tourism.
“You can see that the City of Rio is alive, and it has been like this for the whole year of Rio hosting several Ministerial Meetings, working groups, task teams and task forces. People were flocking to Brazil, and it has shone a spotlight on the issues of the world and the economy.”
Lamola is also of the view that the money that will be injected into the country hosting the summit will be a worthy investment. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Tue, 11/19/2024 - 13:19
Agreements signed with battery energy storage projects
Minister of Electricity and Energy, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has signed two project agreements and the commercial close of two projects appointed as preferred bidders under the first Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (BESIPPPP) Bid Window 1.
According to the Department of Electricity and Energy, the two projects secure “a total of 360 MW/1440 MWh storage capacity under the country’s first grid-scale bid window”.
“Both projects, developed by EDF International and their project partners, Mulilo, Gibb-Crede, Pele Green Energy, and a community trust, will be located in the Northern Cape Province and will contribute a total of 180 MW/720 MWh storage capacity on the national grid.
“Oasis Aggeneis, with a total capacity of 77MW/308MWh will be located at Aggeneis Sub Station close to the town of Aggenys. Oasis Nieuwehoop, with a capacity of 103MW/412MWh, will be located at Nieuwehoop Sub Station close to Kenhardt. Project construction is expected to take no more than 24 months and the storage capacity is expected to come online no later than November 2026,” the department said in a statement on Monday.
The two projects are expected to attract investment of some R4.7 billion with local entity participation of around 42.23% and Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) ownership of 40% achieved across both projects.
“In support of the current economic challenges that South Africa is facing, the two projects have committed a total of 487 job opportunities (measured in job years) for South Africans, which includes 301 jobs during construction and 186 jobs during operations.
“The projects have committed to spending 20% of total project costs on local content during construction, and 20% on local content during operations.
“The projects have also made commitments of over R43 million over their 15-year lifetime, to be spent in areas such as Skills Development, Supplier Development, Bursaries for Black Students, Enterprise Development, and Socio-Economic Development initiatives,” the department explained.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
The department explained that BESS technology has a critical role to play in “grid operation by storing energy during periods of less demand for electricity and releasing that energy when needed” – like during peak time.
“In addition, BESS provides grid stability through Ancillary Services for the System Operator. BESS further allows for more integration of renewable energy onto the grid,” it said.
To take advantage of this technology, at least four preferred bidders were announced in November last year with all four reaching commercial close.
“A further fifth project was appointed later [on] 28 March 2024, following value for money negotiations. This last project is finalising preparations and final conditions to reach commercial close in early 2025.
“A further two Battery Energy Storage bid windows [are] currently underway. Bid Window 2 is currently in evaluation phase with [a] bid announcement expected within the next few weeks. Bid submission for Bid Window 3 is planned,” the department concluded. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 11/19/2024 - 10:51
Africa calls for funding of just transition
The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has called for urgent action to reduce the cost of capital to fund pathways towards a just transition.
Addressing the second annual High-level Ministerial Roundtable on the Just Transition at the Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, the Minister said the high cost of capital in Africa is inhibiting the continent’s ability to access the transition's socio-economic opportunities.
“In 2021, the average cost of capital for energy projects was about seven times higher in Africa than in Europe and North America. Reducing the cost requires coordinated efforts from governments, financial institutions and businesses to remove frictions, which add costs.
“The current global financial system is not designed to respond appropriately and developing economy countries cannot access the scale and quality of finance required to support their Just Transition Pathways and meet their Nationally Determined Commitments.
“As developing economy countries, we have shared realities that constrain our abilities to transition. We face a lack of means of implementation, limited fiscal space, high costs of capital, debt burdens, limited access to technologies and other factors. Critical within this is the lack of access to the transition's economic opportunities,” George said.
He said South Africa stands at the beginning of its transition journey, with much work ahead in shaping and implementing the necessary policies and actions.
“At the heart of all our climate actions is a steadfast commitment to ensuring a just and equitable transition, one that empowers our workers, communities, and all of society to define and drive the journey toward low-emissions and climate-resilient development.
“Our National Framework on Just Transition is designed to embed fairness and equity into our mitigation and adaptation strategies. This is reflected in the formulation of our new Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) trajectory range, which aligns with the 1.5 degrees Celsius goal while ensuring that equity and fairness remain at the forefront,” the Minister said.
George said for South Africa, transition pathways must create sustainable jobs, enhance livelihoods, and generate opportunities for localised industrialisation, moving towards a genuine transformative process that supports an inclusive and competitive economy.
“In our collective commitment to achieve low carbon and climate resilient development, international cooperation and unlocking access to transition opportunities remains at the core,” George said.
COP29 is currently underway until 22 November 2024 in Baku, Azerbaijan. - SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Tue, 11/19/2024 - 09:47
Serving as the leading platform for deal-making, energy partnerships and capital investment in Africa's energy sector, African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies will return to Cape Town, South Africa in 2025, in partnership with the Government of South Africa, S&P Global Commodity Insights and Afreximbank.
Featuring a strong lineup of industry leaders dedicated to securing a sustainable energy future for the continent, Africa's largest energy sector gathering will take place from September 29 to October 3 at the Cape Town International Convention Center 2. Building on the success of previous editions, the event continues to solidify its status as the premier gathering for the African energy industry.
With over 125 million barrels of proven oil reserves, 620 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and abundant renewable resources, Africa holds the potential to become a global energy leader. With African energy demand expected to more than double by 2050 and fossil fuels projected to comprise up to 60% of the energy mix by 2040, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 aims to eradicate energy poverty by 2030 through an influx of investment and innovation across the continent.
With a tailored program addressing key challenges and opportunities within Africa's energy sector, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 promises impactful sessions, innovative showcases and unparalleled networking opportunities. This premier gathering will bring together industry visionaries, African governments, national oil companies and key stakeholders across the energy value chain to tackle the complexities and seize the opportunities within Africa's thriving energy landscape.
AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 will feature workshops, discussions and presentations covering critical topics such as investment in upstream development, legislative and regulatory policies, infrastructure growth strategies, the downstream sector and Africa's role in the global energy transition.
With just one year to go, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 aims to build on the momentum of the 2024 edition. The impressive five-day agenda featured seven premium stages, five content stages, two technical hubs and a pre-event workshop day. Delegates in 2025 can look forward to new project updates, industry highlights, investment opportunities and strategies that align with Africa's energy and sustainability goals.
“AEW was established with the mission to make energy poverty history by 2030. As a central pillar of Africa's energy sector, the conference offers an unparalleled platform to forge partnerships, share knowledge and drive progress,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber. “Having grown into one of the continent's largest energy events, we look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2025, with next year's edition promising to surpass all prior events. We are thrilled to bring together delegates from around the world to address Africa's pressing energy needs.”
Entering its fifth year, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 reaffirms its position as the preferred platform for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government leaders.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Monday 18 November 2024: With less than six days remaining until the 24 November 2024 deadline, Eskom is urging all prepaid electricity customers to update their meters immediately to avoid an unexpected loss of electricity. Meters still using KRN1 (Key Revision Number 1) will no longer accept electricity tokens after Sunday, 24 November 2024. This...
Environment minister has lifted quantity restrictions on the city’s three marine outfalls
SA seeks balance between livelihoods and renewable energy ambitions
By Gabisile Ngcobo
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - President Cyril Ramaphosa has highlighted the importance of considering the livelihoods and jobs of ordinary people, as the energy sector transitions towards renewable sources.
“As we can go towards renewable energy, there must be a just transition. There is a transition that we in South Africa have to go through and it must be the type of transition that advances the interests of ordinary people, as it grows the economy.
“The opportunities are enormous, and we just need to utilise the enablers to ensure it benefits everyone,” the President said on Sunday.
President Ramaphosa spoke in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen jointly launched the ’Leveraging the Potential of Renewables – The Road to Johannesburg’ campaign.
The campaign was launched during a panel discussion with Hugh Evans, co-founder and CEO of Global Citizen.
The Global Citizen initiative, along with the 2024 G20 Presidency, supported by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, brought together over 450 world leaders, innovators, and advocates on the eve of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, which kicks off today.
Their goal is to promote urgent action to combat poverty and tackle the climate crisis.
“As we go to renewables, relying more on the sun, wind and hydro, we’ve got to make sure that as people lose jobs and as their livelihoods are eroded, and as towns where we used to draw fossil fuels [become] deserted, we have to make sure that the transition for ordinary people becomes a transition that they benefit from,” President Ramaphosa stressed.
The Head of State believes workers should not fear job loss without being skilled in new technologies.
A prime example of South Africa's commitment to skilling workers in new technologies is the partnership between the Mpumalanga Provincial Government (which is home to about 80% of power stations in South Africa), the Presidential Climate Commission, the Climate Investment Fund and the World Bank. The entities are working together to explore plans on re-skilling and upskilling the most vulnerable in the labour force and supporting small businesses and co-operatives in local communities.
In last year's State of the Province Address, former Mpumalanga Premier Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane assured citizens that plans towards the Just Energy Transition will leave no one behind.
READ | Just energy transition to be inclusive
South Africa faces challenges due to its reliance on fossil fuels, while witnessing growth in the climate sector.
Currently, only 3% of global investments in renewable infrastructure are allocated to Africa, while the European Commission aims to triple renewable energy investment by 2030.
“Africa is well endowed with sun and wind, and that can be utilised to good effect to grow our economies to ensure that at a social level, people have access to electricity,” President Ramaphosa said.
However, he stated that this does not come cheaply and requires financing and clear decisions by leaders, not only on the African continent but globally as well.
He emphasised the need for collaboration between African countries and developed nations to fulfil commitments and secure essential funding and technology.
According to the President, energy drives growth and economies.
The 12-month ’Leveraging the Potential of Renewables – The Road to Johannesburg’ campaign aims to scale renewable energy in Africa by leveraging South Africa’s G20 Presidency.
The initiative seeks to tackle issues of inequality and promote sustainable development, to provide access to power to millions who currently lack electricity.
According to President Ramaphosa, South Africa's G20 Presidency will also focus on the importance of solidarity and equality in addressing global challenges, particularly in the context of Africa’s history of inequality.
Preparations are underway for South Africa’s G20 Presidency and the hosting of the G20 Summit in 2025. South Africa is set to assume the Chair of the G20 from Brazil on 1 December this year.
The country’s first citizen also touched on the role of the upcoming 2025 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in focusing on a just transition and the importance of global support for this transition.
In her address, Von der Leyen outlined the European Green Deal and its goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050. While underscoring the importance of global cooperation, she said there was a need to ensure no continent is left behind, particularly Africa.
“But if we want to be successful in fighting climate change and protecting nature, we must think globally.
“We will only be successful if we leave no continent behind, and [ensure] the transition in Africa is a just one.
“Africa has, as we said, all the resources necessary in abundance -- sun and wind, and 60% of the best solar places worldwide. But only 3% of the global investments in infrastructure for renewables go to Africa. And with that, the task is clear. We must step up,” Von der Leyen said. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Mon, 11/18/2024 - 02:25
President arrives in Brazil to lead SA’s participation at G20 Summit
President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Brazil on Saturday night to lead South Africa’s participation in the Group of Twenty (G20) Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro.
The G20 Leaders’ Summit, which will be held between 18 and 19 November 2024, will focus on “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet”.
“Brazil’s G20 Presidency continues the global south rotating Presidency and during its tenure prioritises social inclusion and the fight against hunger and poverty, energy transitions and the promotion of sustainable development in its economic, social, environmental dimensions and the reform of global governance Institutions,” the Presidency said in a statement.
On Sunday, 17 November 2024, President Ramaphosa will participate in the launch of the Leveraging the Potential of Renewables – The Road to Johannesburg Campaign.
On Monday, 18 November 2024, at the beginning of the Leaders’ Summit, the President will present South Africa’s statements during plenary sessions. These statements will focus on the fight against hunger and poverty and the reform of global governance institutions.
South Africa will officially receive the G20 Presidency during the Leaders’ Summit and will continue to build on the initiatives of its Global South predecessors starting from 1 December 2024, under the rallying call of “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability”.
The G20 is the leading forum for global economic cooperation and governance, representing 85% of the world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), 75% of global trade, and two-thirds of the global population.
It serves as a platform to promote effective multilateral cooperation by uniting the world’s major economies to ensure economic stability and sustainable growth worldwide.
The G20 consists of 19 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Russia, Türkiye, the United Kingdom and the United States. Additionally, it includes two organisations: the African Union and the European Union.
The President is expected to hold bilateral meetings on the margins of the Leaders’ Summit.
According to the Presidency, South Africa’s participation in the G20 is guided by the four strategic foreign policy pillars.
These include advancing national interests to attain domestic objectives, enhancing the African agenda and promoting Africa’s sustainable development, South-South Cooperation and influencing the global multilateral architecture by advancing the agenda of the South through North-South dialogue.
“South Africa’s participation in the G20 therefore seeks to provide strategic direction in establishing a more equitable, representative and fit-for-purpose international order, in support of the main multilateral processes under the United Nations.”
President Ramaphosa is accompanied by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola and Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Sun, 11/17/2024 - 05:58
Minister visits Stilfontein mine shaft
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has told local communities in Stilfontein in the North West where illegal miners are remain underground that the authorities are doing everything in their power to get them to resurface.
Mchunu said on Friday that 1187 people have come to the surface from the mine.
One illegal miner has passed away and police have registered an inquest to investigate the circumstances surrounding his death.
A significant number remain underground.
The Minister conducted a visit to the Stilfontein mine shaft and engaged with members of the South African Defence Force on the events that have unfolded at the mine shaft to date.
Addressing the local community after the visit, Mchunu said the police were aware of the illegal firearms the illegal miners have.
“These are people who are coming to South Africa illegally. What we are doing as the police is to ensure that there is law and order in the country,” Mchunu said.
Mchunu said police were intensifying their operations to get the illegal miners out of the mine.
“We are aware that some community members know what is happening down there, we are appealing to them to distance themselves from those activities, engaging in illegal mining is illegal,” the Minister said.
He appealed to the local communities to assist the police in combatting illegal mining.
“We are aware that what is happening there is dangerous. We are doing everything in our power to deal with the situation we are faced with,” Mchunu said.
On Tuesday, a total of 15 suspects including Zimbabweans, Mozambicans, Basotho and South Africans surfaced from Magaret Shaft.
The suspects are being processed and are expected to appear before the Stilfontein Magistrates Court on charges of possession of gold dust, contravention of the Immigration Act, 2002 and illicit mining.
The Operation Vala Umgodi team - comprising members from the SAPS, SANDF and stakeholders - have seized illegal mining equipment and goods including alcohol, energy beverages, oxygen cylinders, an air compressor, scrap generator, a laptop, and bags containing gold bearing material as well as a jackhammer and generators. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 11/15/2024 - 15:35
Friday, 15 November 2024: Loadshedding remains suspended for 233 consecutive days since 26 March 2024. Eskom continues to realise efficiencies from the investments made in the Generation Recovery Plan that have contributed to South Africa’s energy security and a structural improvement in the coal-fired fleet. The plan has resulted in year-on-year diesel savings of R15.16...
Government commends progress made in Lesotho Highlands Water Project maintenance
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister, David Mahlobo, has commended the progress made in the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnel maintenance operations, which started last month.
Mahlobo and Deputy Minister Sello Seitlholo led an inspection of the maintenance operation at the Lesotho Highlands Water Project tunnel in Clarens, Free State, on Friday.
The joint maintenance operation by Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) and the Lesotho Highlands Development Agency (LHDA) is currently underway, following the tunnel system closure on 1 October 2024.
The TCTA is undertaking the maintenance operation on Delivery Tunnel North within South Africa, and LHDA will focus on the transfer tunnels at the Muela hydro power station in Lesotho.
Speaking at the inspection, Mahlobo commended the TCTA for the quality of the work delivered since the tunnel shutdown on 1 October 2024.
Mahlobo emphasised the ability of the two nations to cooperate and share the resources, noting that there are rivers that are flowing in between the neighbouring countries of South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia and Botswana.
“This trans-boundary cooperation is one of the things that we need to promote because in other parts of the world, there’s conflict around the issue of sharing water,” Mahlobo said.
Mahlobo highlighted the other advantages, which benefit both South Africa and Lesotho.
“In Lesotho, they have a hydro power station to power the system. It’s clean energy… At the very same time, this side, we are able to supply [water] for domestic use and other economic uses, whether it is agriculture industries, powering a number of communities and provinces (sic).
“The water… touches more than 13 million beneficiaries because it touches the province of Free State, Northern Cape, North West, Gauteng, and it also touches Mpumalanga. That is the scale of it and it is massive,” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister said the Lesotho Highlands Water Project was completed by the democratic government, as it was commissioned in 1998.
South Africa’s richness in engineering
Mahlobo said South Africa is rich with skilled people in engineering, science and technology.
“[The LHWP] is a very sophisticated and complex system, where you have to go through the mountains, and you can see very serious engineering just to put [up] infrastructure of this nature. You can see the technology that is used…
“There is a need for continuous maintenance when you have assets. Therefore, investing in an asset gives you a longer life span and this one is going to extend the life span for the additional 20 years,” Mahlobo said.
The Deputy Minister called for reduced water losses, reiterating that every drop of water counts.
Support for municipalities
Mahlobo reiterated government’s support for all the municipalities that are directly or indirectly affected by the LHWP system.
“We are satisfied that the system will be managed, [but we acknowledge] it will remain vulnerable because it is a life system. It must be monitored from time to time, [hence] the weekly meetings happening every Wednesday to oversee the work. We want to encourage the workers to continue to do a good job and we are very proud of the work they do.
“Our call for citizens to use water sparingly still remains. In as much as water will continue to be available, it must be used sparingly,” Mahlobo said.
The LHWP maintenance is expected to be completed on 31 March 2025. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Fri, 11/15/2024 - 14:59
Recently, at the JETOUR Global Travel+ Conference 2024 (www.JETOURGlobal.com) in Fuzhou, JETOUR emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation and reaffirmed its strong commitment to the pursuit of "Travel as ESG Practices". After releasing a teaser of Discovery's documentary "Return of the Cheetah", JETOUR invited the documentary's protagonist, Hazen Audel, a renowned biologist and artist, to jointly launch the charity auction for the protection of cheetahs. JETOUR announced that all proceeds from the auction will be donated to cheetah conservation, continuing its consistent support for ecological conservation.
JETOUR: Cheetah Protection will be Our Long-term Public Service
At the conference, more than 1,000 people watched the teaser of the documentary "Return of the Cheetah". The documentary, jointly produced by JETOUR, the Discovery Channel and the Cheetah Conservation Fund, uses the Namibian grasslands in Africa as a backdrop to illustrate the plight of the cheetah around the world, and to encourage more people to get involved in this public welfare activity and help protect the environment for the survival of wildlife, including the cheetah.
While discussing cheetah conservation with Dr. Laura Marker, founder of the Cheetah Conservation Fund, and Hazen Audel, the main character in the documentary, Ke Chuandeng, Vice President of JETOUR Auto, said, "Public welfare is not just about giving. It is about encouraging more people to get involved. Through our cheetah conservation project, we hope to raise awareness of the importance of wildlife conservation and inspire more people to get involved. When we add up every small act of kindness, it creates energy that can help build a better and more harmonious world.”
On September 20, 2024, JETOUR officially announced its strategic partnership with CCF in South Africa. In support of CCF, JETOUR will sponsor the care of two orphan/non-releasable cheetahs and donate official vehicles to improve cheetah habitats. JETOUR has successfully adopted a wild cheetah and partnered with the Discovery Channel to produce the documentary "Return of the Cheetah" about the growth of the cheetah cub. Hazen Audel also brought his own hand-carved "Cheetah's Guardian" artwork for the auction. He said, "I am very fortunate to be able to participate in the ESG project of cheetah conservation, and during the filming of the documentary I was very touched by the actions of JETOUR and CCF to help cheetahs continue to live on earth. With the sculptures I created for cheetah conservation, I hope to attract new people to see what's happening in the world. I wanted the proceeds from the sculptures to go back into the efforts of wildlife conservation.
Travel as ESG Practices: Enriching the "Travel+" Strategy
Currently, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) mission has become a significant trend in corporate development. JETOUR has incorporated ESG mission into its business and global development since its establishment.
In China, JETOUR launched the long-term charitable program of "Journey of Hope", focusing on the education and healthcare of left-behind children. Since 2020, JETOUR and its users have organized over 300 charitable activities. The company also established an ESG section on its app, encouraging users to participate in various charitable activities, with plans to hold 2,000 events over the next decade.
Internationally, JETOUR follows the "In somewhere. For somewhere" philosophy, conducting various charitable activities, such as traffic safety campaigns in Angola, sponsorship of vehicles for disabled athletes in Peru, support for rural road construction in Kazakhstan, and donations to children's education in Saudi Arabia. Through these initiatives, JETOUR continues to demonstrate that travel and ESG are deeply interconnected, creating social value for regions where it operates.
Li Xueyong, President of JETOUR Auto, said, “With the development of JETOUR's global business, we are increasingly aware of the harmonious symbiosis between economic development and the ecological environment. If we treat the earth well, the earth will treat us well. Cooperation with CCF is just the beginning. In the future, we will continue to support ecological conservation and contribute to global sustainable development.”
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of JETOUR.
Tickets now available for 15th edition of Simola Hillclimb which takes place in Knysna from 1 to 4 May 2025 General Entry tickets along with upgrades for Pit Access, Turn 2 and The Esses Grandstands, plus VIP Parking – all available on simolahillclimb.com Hospitality packages offer exclusive VIP experience with 1, 2 or 3-day packages […]
In response to high rates of heroin use, the government will pilot an opioid agonist therapy program
R7.6 billion loan to implement Just Energy Transition concluded
South Africa’s efforts to shift towards a low emissions economy have been strengthened by the conclusion of the negotiations for a R7.6 billion loan for the implementation of the country’s Just Energy Transition Plan (JETP) by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD).
This innovative policy-based financing, the largest ever on AFD's balance sheet, was developed in close collaboration with the JET Programme Management Unit (JET-PMU) in the Presidency and National Treasury to support the just dimensions of the Just Energy Transition (JET), maximising the social outcomes of the energy transition for local communities.
This loan builds on the €300 million public policy loan provided in 2022, bringing France’s total contribution to the JETP to €700 million out of the €1 billion pledged at COP26 ( United Nations Climate Change Conference) in Glasgow.
“The partnership with the AFD presents an opportunity for South Africa to make progress in addressing practical issues of jobs, skills, social support, and governance.
“National Treasury will continue working through the intergovernmental system to integrate JET into our fiscal policy choices. To succeed, coordination across all spheres of government is therefore critical,” National Treasury’s Head of Asset and Liability Management Mmakgoshi Lekhethe said on Thursday.
South Africa’s Just Energy Transition programme is designed to ensure that the livelihoods of communities that are tied to carbon-intensive energy sources, such as coal, are not left behind in the transition to a low-emission economy, and that the energy transition is fair.
A well-managed JET can be a strong driver for new jobs, social justice and poverty reduction as it emphasises the importance of embedding just transition outcomes in policy conditions.
“AFD’s JET public policy loan focuses on social equity and specifically targets support for the social dimensions of the transition, which includes job creation, poverty reduction, social justice and equitable access to electricity supply.
“In addition, the AFD Group is instrumental in providing technical cooperation and capacity building to South African institutions related to JET.
“The loan is linked to a set of policy reforms aimed at ensuring a just transition and AFD is putting a robust monitoring and evaluation framework in place to track the progress of these reforms,” a joint statement by the National Treasury and AFD Groupe said.
South Africa’s JET is supported by a strong governance and institutional framework that includes the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC), a dedicated JET-PMU, a comprehensive investment plan, underpinned by support from international partnerships with France and several other countries.
AFD’s Regional Director for Southern Africa and Country Director for South Africa Audrey Rojkoff said the AFD is working together with JET partners to strike a balance between South Africa’s energy needs and its climate commitments.
“Importantly, we are engaged in addressing the complexity around ensuring that the transition benefits all segments of society with careful planning and implementation. With high levels of commitment, we anticipate positive outcomes throughout the transitioning process,” the statement said. -SAnews.gov.za
nosihle
Thu, 11/14/2024 - 15:21