The 18th Energy Digicon, hosted by Premier Alan Winde, recently featured a discussion on demand side management (DSM) by the Western Cape Energy Resilience Programme. DSM aims to flatten peak energy consumption and encourage consumers to reassess their power usage habits.
Democratizing the Power Sector through DSM
Incentivizing behavioral change is the Western Cape Government’s focus on DSM, which is about democratizing the power sector and rewarding power-saving habits. Premier Winde acknowledged the public’s frustration with load shedding and power blackouts, saying, “It is justifiably intolerable.”
Innovation and Technology in DSM
Mark Allewell, founder and CEO of Sensor Networks, a Cape Town-based company, was the special guest at the event. His presentation emphasized the role of innovation and technology in DSM, particularly smart geysers. Geysers, which are responsible for approximately 40% of monthly energy bills in an average South African household, are seen as low-hanging fruit that can be more easily managed amid the energy crisis.
Smart Geysers and Energy Consumption
As energy becomes limited and electricity tariffs rise, people are more conscious of their power usage and budgets. Allewell proposed retrofitting existing geysers with smart devices to help residents better manage their energy consumption and avoid running out of hot water during load shedding. He said, “A geyser can cost anywhere between R400 and R1000 to run.”
Rewarding Mindful Energy Use
Allewell advocates for the use of smart home technology to reduce energy consumption and save money for consumers. “Consumers should be rewarded for contributing towards easing blackouts,” he said.
Challenges in the Energy Sector
The recent meeting of the Western Cape Energy Council showcased a presentation by Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa. Premier Winde expressed concerns over the delays in the refurbishment of Koeberg Nuclear Power Plant’s two generation units. In response, special advisor on energy Alwie Lester reassured the public that there was no risk of nuclear fallout during the process, stating, “Koeberg has had one of the best safety records in the world for decades.”
Promising Change for a Sustainable Future
The Western Cape Government’s focus on DSM and innovative solutions like smart geysers presents a promising change in how power consumption is approached. Incentivizing and rewarding mindful energy use may be the key to a more resilient and sustainable future in the face of ongoing energy challenges.
