In the middle of the COP28 summit, South Africa faces a dilemma. While it is among the fifteen largest emitters of greenhouse gases in the world and is the continent’s leading polluter, the country finds itself faced with an energy crisis which is forcing it to extend the lifespan of its coal-fired power stations. However, this decision provokes strong reactions and raises concerns about the impact on the environment and on the country’s climate commitments.
State-owned Eskom, responsible for producing more than 80% of South Africa’s electricity from coal, plans to decommission six plants by 2030. However, the ruling ANC party wants that these power plants continue to operate in order to preserve the country’s energy security. President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed support for the approach, saying other countries have also faced energy crises and made similar decisions.
However, the proposal raises concerns about the impact on air quality and South Africa’s climate commitments. Civil society organizations warn of the financial risks linked to postponing the dismantling of power plants, and stress that funds intended for the energy transition could be compromised. In addition, the World Bank recalls that investment in renewable energies is the fastest and cheapest solution to meet the country’s energy needs.
It is therefore crucial for South Africa to strike a balance between its energy security and its climate commitments. An extension of the lifespan of coal-fired power plants over a short period of time could be feasible, but a longer extension could jeopardize the transition to cleaner, renewable energy sources.
In conclusion, South Africa finds itself faced with a dilemma between the need to maintain energy security and the urgency of taking climate action. It is essential that the country explores all available options, including investments in renewable energy, in order to find a viable and sustainable solution.