In a notable address at the African Energy Indaba, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane, the Deputy Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy in South Africa, highlighted the country’s significant progress in addressing energy challenges. The event, themed “African Energy Transitioning from Aspiration to Action – Delivering a Sustainable and Prosperous Future,” provided an opportunity to reflect on achievements in reducing energy poverty, fostering a conducive investment environment, and curbing carbon emissions.
Dr. Nkabane acknowledged that South Africa has made strides over the past 30 years, increasing electricity access from 34% in 1994 to over 92% today. Despite this achievement, the Deputy Minister acknowledged the existing electricity supply-demand imbalance, prompting the government to implement measures for a lasting solution.
To combat load shedding, the government has rigorously executed the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), focusing on building additional energy capacity, extending the lifespan of power stations, and developing gas-to-power projects. The Independent Power Producer (IPP) Office has successfully procured 5,939 MW of additional energy capacity, with an additional 7,615 MW in advanced procurement stages.
Dr. Nkabane also emphasized the importance of retaining nuclear power in South Africa’s energy mix. The ongoing review of the IRP 2019 recognizes nuclear power as a sustainable transitional activity. Efforts are underway to extend the life of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station by an additional 20 years.
Addressing the global shift towards natural gas, the Deputy Minister highlighted South Africa’s abundant gas resources, including shale gas in the Karoo and recent discoveries by Kinetiko Energy and TotalEnergies. Gas is considered a game-changer for the nation’s economic recovery plan, and measures are being taken to counter opposition to the development of the South African Upstream Petroleum Industry.
Dr. Nkabane also stressed the continuing importance of coal as a strategic mineral and a source of baseload energy. The government is investing resources in Carbon Capture, Utilisation, and Storage (CCUS) research in Leandra, Mpumalanga Province.
The Deputy Minister concluded by expressing hope that investors attending the event would find South Africa an attractive destination for investment, considering the nation’s commitment to a diversified and sustainable energy future.
