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Soweto landmark gets a new lease on life with a Heritage Hall and community shopping centre SOWETO, SOUTH AFRICA, 28 November 2023 – The iconic Eyethu Theatre in Soweto, home to one of the first black-owned cinemas in South Africa, has been revitalised and transformed into a contemporary community hub while preserving a local legacy …
In the dynamic world of business, managing cash flow is akin to steering a ship through ever-changing seas. A sustainable cash flow budget is not just a financial document; it’s a strategic roadmap guiding your business through fiscal uncertainties and opportunities alike. The Art of Crafting a Sustainable Cash Flow Budget 1. Conduct a Thorough …
EcoFlow (https://apo-opa.co/47Nemde) (www.EcoFlow.com), a leading company of eco-friendly and sustainable energy solutions, achieved remarkable success during the 2023 Black Friday sales. On Takealot (https://apo-opa.co/3QXcqIn), South Africa's leading online store, EcoFlow secured its top position in the portable power station category, and cemented its place among the top ten brands in overall sales, affirming its leadership in sustainable energy.
"EcoFlow appreciates the trust and choice of every user. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow has steadfastly pursued the vision of 'Power a new world,' creating intelligent, user-friendly, and sustainable power solutions", said by Joy Wu, Head of LAMEA & APAC at EcoFlow.
This marked the first time EcoFlow participated in Black Friday sales in South Africa, and its outstanding performance culminated in the top position in the portable power station category on Takealot.
Moreover, EcoFlow claimed the sixth spot in the overall brand rankings for gross merchandise value. Among the top 10 items sold by gross merchandise value, EcoFlow DELTA 2 Portable Power Station (https://apo-opa.co/3N5IcSt) secured the third position. Notably, EcoFlow is the exclusive brand in the portable power stations and energy solutions category to achieve such recognition.
EcoFlow also delivered excellent results across various sales channels, including more than a thousand retailer stores and online stores, such as Incredible Connection, Makro, Builders, Hirsch's and EcoFlow official website, witnessing an overall sales growth of 200% compared to the previous sales period.
EcoFlow Portable Power Stations(PPS) (https://apo-opa.co/47vcg27), including the EcoFlow RIVER and EcoFlow DELTA series, have gained significant traction in the South African market due to technological innovation and superior performance.
Distinguished by its extreme portability, minimal maintenance, silent operation, and eco-friendly energy, EcoFlow PPS provides a safe and reliable household power supply solution. Additionally, its industry-leading fast-charging technology and exceptional user experience have earned the trust of over 2.5 million users across 100+ global markets.
In addressing South Africa's immediate challenges with Load Shedding, EcoFlow PPS showcased flexibility by seamlessly integrating with Solar Panels (https://apo-opa.co/3N7TaH5), Transfer Switches, and other products in the EcoFlow ecosystem. This empowers households to achieve an intelligent and reliable sustainable backup power supply in the face of an unstable main grid.
To provide efficient and dependable support to the users in South Africa, EcoFlow has established a robust after-sales service system. Locally-based hotline and email customer service guarantee swift responses within 48 hours. In case of repairs, EcoFlow is dedicated to concluding the repair process and dispatching the serviced product within 3-5 working days.
The 2023 Black Friday event featured the best selling EcoFlow DELTA 2 and RIVER 2 series portable power stations. Equipped with LFP batteries boasting a 3000-cycle lifespan and backed by a 5-year warranty, DELTA 2 and RIVER 2 series ensure a secure power experience for the next decade. As a token of gratitude, the historic price reductions of up to 47% off will extend to this December for the best buying opportunity for more users.
Looking ahead, EcoFlow remains committed to prioritizing user experience and continuous innovation for greater solutions. The company envisions incorporating clean energy into the future lives of more individuals and families.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EcoFlow.
Media Contact:
Orange Lin
EcoFlow Communications Manager, South Africa
orange.lin@ecoflow.com
About EcoFlow:
EcoFlow is a leading eco-friendly energy solutions company with the vision to power a new world. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow aims to become a reliable and trusted energy companion for individuals and families across the world, providing accessible and renewable power solutions at home, outdoors, and in mobile spaces. Today, with operational headquarters located in the USA, Germany, and Japan, EcoFlow has empowered more than 2.5 million users in over 100 markets worldwide.
Bureau Veritas (https://group.BureauVeritas.com), a global leader in testing, inspection, and certification, announces that Bureau Veritas's AgriFood Laboratory in Cape Town has successfully completed a solar power and back up energy project that enables it to operate independently of the national electricity grid of South Africa.
Bureau Veritas has taken a bold step toward undertaking a solar and back up project that allows it to sustain its business continuity for its Cape Town AgriFood Laboratory. This development not only allows the laboratory to operate at full capacity, 24 hours a day and without interruptions, but it also represents a significant stride toward the Group's objectives and ongoing commitment to environmental sustainablity through reduced Carbon Emmisions.
Joanne Barton, Managing Director, Bureau Veritas AgriFood Labaratories, said: “Our transition to solar power has energised our team in Cape Town due to the reliability of our new system. We are delighted that we are able to serve our clients with 100% uptime, ensuring uninterrupted service and a brighter, more sustainable future for our community.
Gavin Hefer, District Chief Executive for Southern Africa, Bureau Veritas, commented: “We are extremely pleased with the team at our AgriFood Lab that has contributed to a project that allows us to better serve our clients in the Western Cape region. As a company that is committed to reducing our carbon footprint, it is imperative that we continue to relieve the national grid of pressure and operate in a way that is sustainable and environmentally responsible while delivering services to our clients without interruptions.”
Operating out of Brackenfell, in the northern suburbs of Cape Town, Bureau Veritas' AgriFood Laboratories, an ISO 17025:2017 SANAS accredited laboratory, is ideally situated to service role-players in the region's industrial hubs, as well as those operating the winelands, farming region, fruit orchards, wheatlands and rooibos fields, together with their associated value chains from coast to coast.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Bureau Veritas.
Media contacts:
Prince Cekeshe
+260 542 9824
Prince.Cekeshe@bureauveritas.com
Peter Moopela
+27 81 399 9737
jhbmandlsales@bureauveritas.com
About Bureau Veritas:
Bureau Veritas is a world leader in laboratory testing, inspection and certification services. Created in 1828, the Group has circa 84,000 employees located in nearly 1,600 offices and laboratories around the globe. Bureau Veritas helps its 400,000 clients improve their performance by offering services and innovative solutions in order to ensure that their assets, products, infrastructure and processes meet standards and regulations in terms of quality, health and safety, environmental protection and social responsibility.
Bureau Veritas is listed on Euronext Paris and belongs to the CAC 40 ESG, CAC Next 20 and SBF 120 indices.
Compartment A, ISIN code FR 0006174348, stock symbol: BVI.
For more information, visit www.BureauVeritas.com, and follow us on Twitter (https://apo-opa.co/47vbZMJ) (@bureauveritas) and LinkedIn (https://apo-opa.co/46yBcEv).
Load shedding ramped up to Stage 4
Eskom has announced the implementation of Stage 4 load shedding until further notice.
In a short statement on social media site X, Eskom said: “Due to insufficient emergency reserves and generation capacity as a result of four units not returning to service as planned, Stage 4 load shedding was implemented this morning at 02:31am until further notice,” it said on Wednesday.
This as the power utility on Tuesday announced the implementation of Stage 2 load shedding from 9am to 4pm followed by Stage 3 load shedding from 4pm until 5am on Wednesday. This was to be followed by Stage 2 load shedding until 4pm. At the time, it said the pattern of implementing Stage 2 load shedding in the morning and Stage 3 load shedding in the evening would be repeated daily until further notice.
Meanwhile, Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has encouraged workers at Lethabo Power Station to keep the station’s performance high.
The power station is Eskom’s second best performing station.
The Minister was visiting the Free Stat- based power station as part of a follow up of his initial visits to power stations.
“When units fail…just remember what that does to the South African economy and the poor. Remember what that does to the national fiscus and our ability to meet our promise to take care of the poor, ensure that people remain in employment and ensure that we are able to realise growth.
“I’ve come here… to say thank you. Let’s keep up the good work. There’s more that ought to be done,” he said.
The Minister explained government’s plans to augment generation capacity.
“We are working on new generation capacity. We can’t just solely rely on the Eskom fleet; we need additional generation capacity and here I’m talking of gas. We are working on gas – 3000MW – and we are also working on connecting the renewables, solar PV and wind.
“I have been assigned the responsibility of coming back to Cabinet with a financing model proposition on how we are going to expand and strengthen the grid,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Wed, 11/22/2023 - 11:01
THE LIBERALISATION OF THE ENERGY SECTOR AND CLIMATE CHANGE Durban, South Africa – Since the President’s State of the Nation Address in 2022, significant steps have been taken by Government to liberalise the energy sector, loosen the hold which Eskom has on the generation and distribution of electricity and move from a monopolistic electricity supply …
Upstream petroleum industry development breakthrough could catapult SA economy
A breakthrough in the development of the upstream petroleum industry has the potential to propel the South African economy to greater heights.
This is according to Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Dr Nobuhle Nkabane who was speaking during the inaugural Energy Conference hosted by the South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) in Johannesburg.
“As the department…we are of a firm view that a breakthrough in the development of the Upstream Petroleum Industry will catapult our economy to greater heights.
“Hence, we are particularly pleased with the recent approval by Parliament of the Upstream Petroleum Resources Development [UPRD] Bill which seeks to separate petroleum provisions from mineral provisions and address issues that are pertinent to the upstream petroleum sector,” she said.
According to the Deputy Minister, a report by the African Energy Chamber has predicted that gas demand is expected to increase and outstrip supply.
She said this will give South Africa an opportunity to tap into that market.
“In view of the [chamber’s] prediction, the approval of the UPRD Bill is indeed a major step towards the immediate development of South Africa’s Upstream Petroleum Industry which will enable our country to become a major player in the production and supply of oil and gas.
“In real terms, this tells us that there is no better time than now for our country to invest in the exploration and exploitation of the natural resources that it is well endowed with, including oil and gas,” Nkabane said.
The Deputy Minister told conference delegates that in light of South Africa's challenges, “we need all” sources of energy.
“Fact of the matter is that, for South Africa to effectively address the triple challenges of poverty, unemployment, and inequality, it will require a more rapid and inclusive economic growth which will need all energy technologies to play a significant role. A developing nation like ours, does not have the luxury to choose between these energy technologies.
“We appreciate that any transition to a low carbon future will have an impact on the use of fossil fuels. However, in view of the fact that 82% of energy sources in the world are from fossil fuels, this conference must help us determine how best South Africa can manage its transition, given its endowment with these fossil fuels,” Nkabane said.
She emphasised that the National Development Plan 2030 enjoins government to implement a mix of energy sources to diversify South Africa’s energy mix to meet growing electricity demand.
“In order to realise this NDP goal…the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) 2019, identified a diversified energy mix required to meet the country’s expected electricity demand growth.
“The mix, which is inclusive of Solar PV, Wind, Coal, Nuclear, Gas, Hydro, and Battery Storage, is necessary for the country to guarantee reliable energy supply to society, and ultimately eradicate energy poverty in our country.
“On the one hand, the mix presents us with an opportunity to diversify South Africa’s electricity mix by producing distributed generation and provide off-grid electricity, whereas on the other hand, it guarantees us baseload energy which is essential for industrialisation,” Nkabane said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Tue, 11/21/2023 - 14:26
Load shedding requires urgent intervention, Ramokgopa tells Parliament
Minister in the Presidency responsible for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, has told the Portfolio Committee on Public Enterprises that load shedding is an existential problem, both in economic and social terms, which requires urgent intervention.
The Minister said the South African economy could be losing up to R1 billion a day, depending on the intensity of load shedding.
“This is severe. The amount of jobs that have been lost as a result of load shedding are projected to be upwards of 800 000 just for the current year, if you were to go by the modelling that has been done by some of the reputable institutions.
“I'm trying to convey the message that we are dealing with a major problem that undermines the overall growth of the South African economy,” he said on Wednesday.
Ramokgopa said as a result of this, President Ramaphosa found it appropriate to provide a comprehensive and compelling response to the crisis by unveiling the Energy Action Plan (EAP), which has about five outcomes.
The five priority outcomes, Ramokgopa said, are to fix Eskom and improve the availability of existing supply; enable private investment in new generation capacity; accelerate procurement of new capacity from renewables, gas and battery storage; unleash investment in rooftop solar PV for businesses and households, and to "undermine the political interest calculation, ensuring that there's transparency in how costs are located and how tariffs are determined".
Expanding on the first priority, the Minister said they have to improve the availability of existing suppliers.
“So the focus will be on the existing fleet of Eskom coal-fired power stations, a focus on Koeberg Nuclear Power Station and also the importation of hydro that we are getting from Mozambique, ensuring that first we address the reliability of this unit... [and reduce] the rate of abrupt failure of these units, and address their efficiency as they run, then approximate their design capacity,” he said.
Turning to the second priority, Ramokgopa said that it exists to ensure that significant private sector investment is attracted, and this is supported by the reforms that were introduced on the generation side.
He said there is a significant amount of project pipeline as a result of the reforms that have been introduced on the generation side, which focuses on the private sector and new generation capacity.
Generation performance
On the overall performance of units, Ramokgopa told the portfolio committee that the trendline has essentially been going up.
"If you look at the available capacity, you can see that it is beginning to pick up from what the situation was in May, which was used as a baseline."
The Minister said they were addressing factors that have contributed to increased load shedding over the past week.
"... There is the good and there's also the bad. The good is that the trendline is going up and the bad is that there are things that we admit that we can improve on, especially better planning, returning the units on time, and ensuring that gradually, we continue to reduce the intensity of load shedding,” the Minister said.
He said they are taking advantage of the warmer period the country is now in.
“We have been ramping up planned maintenance... [We need to] make sure that we fix [the units] and when they come back, they're healthier and they're able to perform,” he said.
As part of improving the issues at Eskom, Ramokgopa said they have returned two of the three units that failed at Eskom last year in October as a result of challenges related to the Flue-gas desulfurization (FGD) unit, which is a mechanical component that houses a chemical process meant to reduce the amount of sulphur content that is emitted into the environment.
“We asked for a special dispensation to bypass that Flue-gas desulfurization unit and then we accepted that there are environmental costs, and that's why we put together a comprehensive health plan to... mitigate the environmental costs, and those were approved by the Minister of Environment.
“Of course, we are going to return to normality, essentially to go back to the original design of going through the Flue-gas desulfurization by the end of the year 2024.
“But now we've got that relief and two of those three units are back. Unit 1 and 3 are back, and we anticipate to bring Unit 2 by end of the month, and then we'll be firing Unit 5 at Kusile by the third week of December. So we project to get another 1 600 megawatts,” the Minister said.
The Minister told the portfolio committee that they are currently focusing on four broad areas, which include the facilitation of renewables.
"It's important to not just over rely on Eskom, which is aging. We have committed to a decarbonisation agenda. We're committed to the nationally determined contribution the net zero path. Of course, we have extended the life of these power stations as a result of the challenges that we're currently facing.
“So we [have] delayed the decommissioning. It will happen but it's delayed. The key is facilitating renewables, and transmission is a big part of that." – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 11/15/2023 - 12:51
Energy Law involves the regulation of, and transactions within, the energy sector from its procurement to its generation and distribution, and includes the ancillary commercial and financing-related agreements required for the smooth operation of the process. Who is the regulator of the energy industry in South Africa In South Africa, the regulation of the electricity …
In a world where electricity outages can disrupt daily life, Geewiz emerges as a trusted ally, offering a comprehensive range of load shedding solutions that cater to a diverse array of needs. With a commitment to keeping homes and businesses powered up during challenging times, Geewiz presents an impressive array of categories that encompass everything …
Telkom is proud to announce the addition of the new Infinite Max Plus mobile plan to their Infinite Product Suite from November 2023. The new Infinite Max Plus product will be available to all new and existing mobile customers who sign up for SIM-only (month-to-month offer with no contract) or on a mobile deal where …
In a world that’s increasingly embracing renewable energy sources, solar panels have become a beacon of hope for those looking to harness the power of the sun. Among the vast array of solar panels available in the market, the BLUETTI PV350 Solar Panel stands out as a compelling choice, boasting impressive specifications and design features …
In an era where sustainable energy solutions are gaining increasing importance, the Shoto 5.12kWh Lithium-ion Battery emerges as a beacon of innovation and eco-friendliness. This powerful energy storage solution, designed by the reputable brand Shoto, is set to transform the way we harness and store electricity. Let’s delve into the details that make this battery …
With many South Africans seeking affordable and reliable solar power solutions to protect their homes and businesses from load-shedding, Nedbank has launched its first set of market-leading solar financing packages available on its Avo Solar website. The packages aim to make greener energy supply accessible to households and businesses of all sizes by offering solar …
Planning an end-of-year getaway is exciting, but for many plant parents the excitement of going away is tinged with worry at the thought of leaving their plants home alone. While some plants can survive a few days without water, a plan must be made for others if you’re planning a longer holiday. Tips for a …
In the dynamic world of gaming, Evo Games stands out as a haven for enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of products and accessories from some of the most sought-after brands in the industry. As a one-stop destination for all things gaming, Evo Games provides a gateway to elevate your gaming experience to new heights. Here’s …
The Milken Institute and the Motsepe Foundation (https://MilkenMotsepePrize.org) today announced the five teams (https://apo-opa.info/3tXVKZw) advancing to the Finalist Round of the Milken–Motsepe Prize in Green Energy. Each finalist team will receive $70,000 to further develop and test their designs in a live field test demonstration in South Africa next year.
The finalist teams are:
“Access to electricity can advance industrialization across Africa and improve the standards of living for many marginalized communities,” said Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, co-founder and CEO of the Motsepe Foundation. “These finalists are building innovative solutions to deliver on the promise of a sustainable future, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals. We will be delighted to welcome them to South Africa for the live demonstrations next year.”
An independent panel of expert judges determined the five teams continuing to the Finalist Round based on a rigorous evaluation of real-world data.
Judges will continue to evaluate competing teams' abilities to meet the challenge of generating 60kWh of electricity in a 24-hour period by:
“These finalists have once again proven the value of the innovation competition model in driving breakthroughs,” said Emily Musil Church, PhD, senior director at the Milken Institute. “The Semifinalist Round pushed these teams to stretch their limits and build solutions that are scalable and life-changing for millions.”
To date, the competition has awarded US$750,000 to entrepreneurs testing bold ideas to expand access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity in Africa.
In May 2024, the judges will award a US$1 million Grand Prize. A runner-up prize of US$250,000 will also be awarded. In total, the Milken–Motsepe Prize in Green Energy will award over US$2 million in prizes and additional benefits.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The Milken-Motsepe Innovation Prize Program.
Media Contact:
Chad Clinton
+1 (202) 262-1067
cclinton@milkeninstitute.org
About the Milken Institute:
The Milken Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank focused on accelerating measurable progress on the path to a meaningful life. With a focus on financial, physical, mental, and environmental health, we bring together the best ideas and innovative resourcing to develop blueprints for tackling some of our most critical global issues through the lens of what's pressing now and what's coming next. For more information, visit www.MilkenInstitute.org
About the Motsepe Foundation:
The Motsepe Foundation was founded in 1999 by Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe. The goal of the Motsepe Foundation is to contribute towards eradicating poverty and to sustainably improve the living conditions and standards of living of poor, unemployed, and marginalized people in South Africa, Africa, and the world. In January 2013, Dr. Patrice Motsepe and Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe joined the Giving Pledge, which was started by Warren Buffet and Bill and Melinda Gates. Dr. Patrice Motsepe and his wife committed to give half of their wealth to the poor and for philanthropic purposes during their lifetime and beyond.
The “energy trilemma” of delivering lower carbon energy that is affordable and secure is an issue facing all businesses and policymakers in the energy space. We believe that the world’s leading energy companies meaningfully want to achieve all three priorities. In January 2023, the New York Times reported that 2022 was the fifth-hottest year on …
As South Africa anticipates the imminent summer season, EcoFlow (https://www.EcoFlow.com/za) takes pride in unveiling its highly anticipated Black Friday Deals (https://apo-opa.info/49kW4lw) for 2023. As load shedding concerns (https://apo-opa.info/49fxceJ) resurface, EcoFlow's exclusive offers, saving up to 47% on load shedding solutions, provide relief from power outages and ensure a constant supply of electricity when it's needed most.
Historical Price Drops
EcoFlow's Black Friday sale presents a golden opportunity to acquire cutting-edge power solutions at unbeatable prices. The highlight of this sale is undoubtedly the award-winning DELTA 2 (https://apo-opa.info/3QH8w7u), EcoFlow's flagship portable power station. Now, for a limited time, customers can enjoy an astounding 28% discount, making the DELTA 2 available for just R17999. That's a remarkable R7000 in savings.
The DELTA 2 is a testament to cutting-edge power innovation, with the ability to expand its capacity from 1-3kWh, fully recharge in just 80 minutes, and deliver an impressive 1800W of rated power output. This performance can be elevated to a staggering 2400W with X-Boost, seamlessly powering up to 90% of household appliances, including microwaves, coffee machines, kettles, and hair dryers.
Turning to the versatile RIVER 2 Max
Equally enticing in this Black Friday extravaganza is the RIVER 2 Max (https://apo-opa.info/3soLbOF), EcoFlow's versatile portable power station. The RIVER 2 Max enjoys an impressive 38% price reduction, now available at just R7999, providing customers with a significant R5000 saving.
With a substantial 512Wh battery capacity and a quick recharge time of as little as one hour, the RIVER 2 Max offers substantial power reserves. Boasting a 500W rated power output, expandable to 1000W with X-Boost, this unit efficiently caters to basic household and outdoor appliance needs, from powering TVs and game consoles to refrigerators.
Portable Power On-the-Go: RIVER 2
The RIVER 2 (https://apo-opa.info/40itvRg), another member of EcoFlow's product lineup, is equally appealing with a generous 43% price reduction. During this Black Friday sale, the RIVER 2 is available for only R3999, offering an attractive R3000 discount.
Compact yet powerful, the RIVER 2 features a high-capacity 256Wh battery and a rapid charging time of just one hour. With a 300W rated power output, expandable to 600W with X-Boost, RIVER 2 is perfect for essential electronic devices, including smartphones, laptops, WiFi routers, cameras, and even televisions.
A Decade of Power Assurance
Both the DELTA 2 and RIVER 2 series offer peace of mind with their impressive battery life of 3000 cycles, guaranteeing a decade of reliable power. To further ensure product quality, EcoFlow extends a reassuring 5-year warranty on these exceptional units. Their on-site after-sales service team is dedicated to providing top-notch service to earn your trust.
Solar Panels: The Sustainable Energy Companion
For those looking to harness the power of the sun, EcoFlow offers substantial discounts on its Solar Panels (https://apo-opa.info/3tTNh9U). Bundling with DELTA 2 or RIVER 2 Series, customers can enjoy savings of up to 47%. This unique pairing transforms portable power stations into sustainable Solar Generators (https://apo-opa.info/3SlEMOO), allowing users to reduce their grid dependency and access a source of long-term, eco-friendly power for off-grid living.
EcoFlow's Black Friday Deals will run throughout November, from November 1 to November 30. It's an opportunity for customers to save up to 47%, maximum saving at R27999, on their favourite power solutions. Detailed information about the discounts and promotions can be found on the official EcoFlow website (https://apo-opa.info/49kW4lw) or the Takealot store (https://apo-opa.info/3tTslQ9).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EcoFlow.
Media Contact:
Orange Lin
EcoFlow Communications Manager, South Africa
orange.lin@ecoflow.com
About EcoFlow:
EcoFlow is a leading eco-friendly energy solutions company with the vision to power a new world. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow aims to become a reliable and trusted energy companion for individuals and families across the world, providing accessible and renewable power solutions at home, outdoors, and in mobile spaces. Today, with operational headquarters located in the USA, Germany, and Japan, EcoFlow has empowered more than 2.5 million users in over 100 markets worldwide.
SA in numbers
78% – the percentage of households in formal dwellings in 2011, which rose to 89% in 2022.
89% – the percentage of households in formal dwellings in 2022, which rose from 78% in 2011.
3 – years since government embarked on the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, by 30 October 2023.
More than 2 million – jobs lost due to the negative economic effects of the Coronavirus pandemic.
2 million – the increase in the number of people with jobs over the last two years, bringing the level of employment close to its pre-pandemic level.
R350 – the value of the Social Relief of Distress Grant introduced by government in 2020 to keep millions of people out of poverty, and continues to provide much-needed support for those who are unemployed.
Over 1.2 million – employment opportunities created by the Presidential Employment Stimulus since its establishment, representing the largest expansion of public employment in South Africa’s history.
Over 4 million – young people registered on the SAYouth online platform, by 30 October 2023.
More than 1 million – young people registered on the SAYouth online platform, who have been able to access opportunities for learning and earning, by 30 October 2023.
26 – commuter rail corridors, out of 40, whose operations had been restored by the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa, by 30 October 2023.
R50 billion – the amount to be spent over the next three years to modernise South Africa’s passenger rail network.
R17 billion – the value of the investment into the Mzimvubu Water Project in the Eastern Cape.
Over 12 000 – megawatts of confirmed projects in development as part of regulatory reforms government has initiated to enable a massive increase in private investment in electricity generation.
Over 4 500 – megawatts of installed rooftop solar that have more than doubled in the last year following the introduction of tax incentives and financing mechanisms.
20 – Economic Infrastructure Task Teams established by the South African Police Service throughout the country to protect critical infrastructure and tackle the “construction mafia”.
880 – members of the South African National Defence Force to be employed to support the police in combating criminal activity that targets critical economic infrastructure.
Over 3 000 – people arrested for illegal mining.
34 – State capture and corruption cases taken to court by the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate over the last four years, involving 205 accused persons.
205 – accused persons involved in 34 State capture and corruption cases taken to court by the National Prosecuting Authority’s Investigating Directorate over the last four years.
R14 billion – the value of freezing orders granted to the Asset Forfeiture Unit for State capture related cases.
Around R5.4 billion – the value of money recovered by the Asset Forfeiture Unit and returned to the State, by 30 October 2023.
18 cents – the amount for every rand that government collects in revenue that goes towards servicing South Africa’s national debt.
Over 6 months – the period during which government will accelerate the implementation of economic reforms.
4 – the number of times the Springboks became the world champions since the advent of democracy in South Africa in 1994.
15 December – the Friday in December 2023 that President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared a public holiday in celebration of the Springboks’ momentous achievement and the achievements of all other sportsmen and sportswomen – and as a tribute to the resolve of the united nation. It is a day of hope, celebration and unity.
Matona
Tue, 10/31/2023 - 09:02
Government partners with business to tackle economic challenges
Government has established a partnership with business to work together in four critical areas, including energy, logistics, crime and corruption, and employment to give impetus to efforts currently being undertaken.
President Cyril Ramaphosa said this while delivering an address to the nation updating on the Economic Recovery progress on Monday.
“We continue to collaborate with organised labour and civil society to ensure a whole-of-society approach to addressing the most important challenges our country faces. All of this gives us hope that we are turning the tide on the many challenges that we face,” the President said.
This month marks three years since government embarked on the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan, which outlined the actions that it would take to rebuild the economy and create jobs in the wake of the COVID pandemic.
The President acknowledged that the last three years have been extremely challenging, as the country emerges from more than a decade of stagnant economic growth, compounded by the impact of the pandemic.
“We are working to reverse the legacy of the past era of corruption and mismanagement of our State-owned enterprises, which has left us with a persistent energy crisis and an inefficient ports and rail network.
“And we are contending with a range of global and domestic pressures which have set back our economic recovery. And yet, there are clear signs that our efforts are showing results. Electricity supply is improving. Jobs are being created.
“Houses, roads, bridges and dams are under construction. Law enforcement agencies are cracking down on criminal syndicates. The proceeds of State capture are being recovered. These are reasons for hope,” President Ramaphosa said.
Since then, in the midst of severe load shedding and increased global volatility, he highlighted that the economy has continued growing, albeit too slowly. He added that the economy has shown a significant degree of resilience and is now larger than it was before the pandemic.
Reforms – Energy Action Plan
Turning to one of the main challenges in the country, President Ramaphosa told the nation that progress is being made towards ending load shedding.
“We are making progress towards ending load shedding. Our greatest priority has been to reduce the severity and frequency of load shedding to achieve energy security. Over the last few months, there has been a measurable decline in the severity of load shedding,” the President said.
He noted that the Energy Action Plan he announced in July last year is showing positive results, “giving us greater confidence that we will bring load shedding to an end”.
The President said that regulatory reforms that have been initiated have enabled a massive increase in private investment in electricity generation, with over 12 000MW of confirmed projects in development.
Following the introduction of tax incentives and financing mechanisms, he said that the amount of installed rooftop solar has more than doubled to over 4 500MW in the last year.
“The steady progress we are making in resolving the energy crisis is a reason for hope,” he said.
Infrastructure
Another commitment made in the Reconstruction and Recovery Plan was to fix South Africa’s infrastructure through renewed investment in maintenance and construction of new projects.
The President highlighted that several significant infrastructure projects are underway.
“These projects are both contributing to greater economic activity and jobs, and providing much-needed infrastructure for the growth of our economy and the needs of our people.
“These infrastructure projects range from social housing, road construction, rural bridges, and dam constructions,” he said.
President Ramaphosa further highlighted that the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa has to date restored operations on 26 out of 40 commuter rail corridors.
To continue with the restoration of the country’s commuter rail corridors, he said R50 billion will be spent over the next three years to modernise the passenger rail network.
As part of the infrastructure build, the President said that the sixth administration is undertaking significant water infrastructure projects. These include Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and the Mzimvubu water project in the Eastern Cape, which will involve an investment of R17 billion.
“Around the country, water treatment works are being upgraded, pumping stations are being repaired, and pipes are being laid to get water to under-serviced areas,” he noted.
Logistics system
President Ramaphosa said the country is making progress in restoring its logistics system to world-class standards, so that SA can export goods to global markets.
The National Logistics Crisis Committee is overseeing a range of interventions to stabilise and improve the performance of the logistics system in the short term, in addition to ongoing reform to improve its efficiency and competitiveness in the long term.
He said the Transnet board has developed a turnaround plan, which aims to increase volumes transported on SA’s network.
“Progress is also being made with the introduction of private sector participation in container terminals. I want to make it clear that South Africa’s port, rail and electricity infrastructure are strategic national assets, and that they will remain in public ownership.
“However, introducing competition in operations – both in electricity and logistics – will create greater efficiency and reduce prices in the long term, just as the introduction of competition in the telecommunications sector has led to greater choice and enormous benefits for consumers,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Mon, 10/30/2023 - 21:50
Mntla Primary consists of prefabs from the 1980s
Empowering Homeowners with Control and Savings Saving the environment by reducing the consumption of scarce water and electricity Making payment collection a breeze Prepaid electricity meters have emerged as a practical solution for homeowners seeking more control over their electricity usage and expenses. These innovative devices allow users to monitor and manage their energy consumption …
World Bank supports SA’s transition to cleaner energy with a $1 billion loan
The World Bank Board has committed to support South Africa’s efforts to promote long-term energy security and a low carbon transition with a $1 billion Development Policy Loan (DPL).
“We are pleased to support South Africa’s government, which has taken decisive reforms to address the challenges posed by the energy crisis. These reforms will benefit the people of South Africa - particularly the most vulnerable households - the economy, the environment, and advance the energy transition,” World Bank Country Director for South Africa Marie Francoise Marie-Nelly said on Wednesday.
The operation supports reforms in two critical areas. It facilitates the restructuring of the power sector through the unbundling of South Africa’s power utility, Eskom.
It supports the opening of the power market and aims at improving Eskom’s efficiency by redirecting its resources toward investments in transmission and maintenance of existing power plants.
The operation also supports a low carbon transition by encouraging private investment in renewable energy, including by households and small businesses, and strengthening carbon pricing instruments.
The World Bank noted that South Africa has been facing an ongoing energy crisis, which has had a marked negative impact on productivity and safety, at a time when the country has been working to implement a just transition to a low carbon economy.
In 2022, load shedding averaged eight hours per day, costing 2-3% of GDP growth to the economy.
“This operation comes at a crucial time for South Africa as it will provide much needed fiscal and technical support, enabling us to pursue our policy priorities in the energy sector including easing the electricity crisis in the long term, stimulating private sector engagement and creating jobs in the renewables space,” National Treasury Deputy-Director General: Asset and Liability Management Mmakgoshi Lekhethe said.
South Africa is among the world’s top 20 greenhouse gas (GHG) emitters. Energy represents 81% of South Africa’s emissions, of which 45% comes from electricity.
“The operation is expected to enhance economic activity and job creation from new investments in renewable energy generation. Poor and vulnerable households will be cushioned against recent increases in electricity tariffs. Poorer households and businesses - particularly women and Black women-owned businesses - will be supported through access to credit by commercial banks to enable them to invest in solar technology,” the World Bank said.
The operation will also contribute to gradual reductions in water and air pollution, as a result of reduced reliance on coal for power generation.
“This is anticipated to lead to substantial improvements in the quality of life of South African households in the long term. South African authorities will also receive technical assistance to identify future reforms necessary to manage the social costs associated with the decommissioning of coal-fired power.
“The operation has been a collaborative effort between the government, the World Bank and three partners, namely the African Development Bank (AfDB), KfW Development Bank (KfW), and Government of Canada. It was informed by South Africa’s development priorities, including the Presidential Energy Plan and the Just Energy Transition,” the World Bank said. – SAnews.gpv.za
nosihle
Thu, 10/26/2023 - 09:56