News

The South African Renewable Energy Masterplan: Harnessing the Power of Green Energy

August 8, 2023

1 min read

The demand for renewable energy and battery storage technologies is on the rise globally, and South Africa is well-positioned to take advantage of this trend. The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) has developed the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM) in collaboration with industry stakeholders, experts, labor, and other government departments. The aim of the masterplan is to harness the potential of renewable energy and battery storage technologies to meet domestic energy needs while also tapping into international opportunities.

A Comprehensive Plan for a Sustainable Future

The SAREM is a meticulously crafted plan that outlines a vision, objectives, and a comprehensive action plan to propel South Africa towards a sustainable and environmentally conscious future. Over the past 18 months, the DMRE has developed the plan with a focus on stakeholder involvement, recognizing its significance in achieving the country’s National Development Plan (NDP) objectives.

Stakeholder Involvement

The DMRE has extended the deadline for submission of comments on the draft SAREM to August 18, 2023. This move seeks to encourage comprehensive review, input, and feedback from various stakeholders to ensure that the renewable energy and battery storage value chains align with the country’s goals. The draft SAREM document is accessible via the DMRE website, and the department has planned virtual townhall sessions for August 14 and 15, 2023, to engage with interested parties.

Importance of Renewable Energy and Battery Storage

South Africa’s reliance on fossil fuels has limited the capacity for growth in the energy sector and contributed to environmental degradation. However, the country has the opportunity to leverage its vast renewable resources, such as solar and wind power, to position itself as a global leader in the industry. The SAREM is a testament to the country’s commitment to a greener future, prioritizing the industrial and inclusive development of renewable energy and battery storage value chains.

Inclusivity

Inclusivity is a key component of the SAREM, ensuring that the benefits of the renewable energy industry are accessible to all South Africans. The renewable energy sector holds the potential to significantly transform the nation’s trajectory by fostering job creation, skills development, and socioeconomic advancement.

A Collaborative Spirit

The collaborative spirit embodied by the SAREM serves as a beacon of hope and progress as South Africa embarks on an ambitious journey towards a sustainable energy future. With inputs from stakeholders across various sectors, the final masterplan will provide a comprehensive blueprint for harnessing the power of renewable energy and battery storage to create a brighter, cleaner, and more prosperous South Africa.

Serjio Zakharoff
Latest posts

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Maximising ROI: How CEOs Can Use Recruitment Agencies to Drive Business Growth

As business leaders, CEOs constantly search for strategic tools to drive growth and maximise return on investment (ROI). One such avenue is leveraging the expertise of recruitment services. With over 40 years of experience, MASA (Measured Ability South Africa) stands out as a leading player in the recruitment and staffing solutions industry, offering a blend of innovative strategies and time-tested methods to enhance your business performance. The Strategic Advantage of Recruitment Agencies In today’s fast-paced business world, the right staffing decisions are crucial. Recruitment agencies like MASA offer a streamlined, efficient approach to hiring that brings numerous benefits: 1. Access

Durban Super Giants Outshine Paarl Royals in SA20 Cricket League

The Durban Super Giants and Paarl Royals went headtohead in an exhilarating cricket match that left fans on the edge of their seats. The game took place at the Kingsmead Stadium, a renowned venue for cricket, and was the talk of the town. The Super Giants emerged victorious, cementing their supremacy in the SA20 league.

Latest from Blog

nsri beach safety coastal rescue technology

Shores of Safety: How the NSRI’s Beach Camera Network is Changing Coastal Rescue

The NSRI’s Beach Safety Camera Network is making South Africa’s beaches safer by watching six risky spots with live video and trained watchers. These cameras spot trouble fast, helping rescuers jump into action before things get worse. The system respects people’s privacy and brings communities together to protect beachgoers. Thanks to this smart mix of technology and teamwork, more lives are being saved along the beautiful but sometimes dangerous coast.

Clouds Above the Cape: South Africa’s Teen Vaping Crisis

Teen vaping is growing fast in South Africa, with many young people using flavored nicotine vapes that are easy to find and heavily advertised. A big study found that nearly one in six teens vape regularly, and many show signs of addiction, worrying health experts. Vaping has become part of teen life at schools and social spots, fueled by cool images online and wrong ideas that it’s safe. Now, South Africa faces a crucial moment to pass strong laws and teach kids the truth before this habit takes deeper hold. Without action, many teens risk lifelong health problems hidden behind the clouds of sweet vapor.

Reimagining the Strand Street Quarry: Cape Town’s Next Chapter

The Strand Street Quarry in Cape Town is set to transform from a quiet, forgotten space into a lively community hub full of sports, culture, and fun. This special place, rich with history and surrounded by vibrant neighborhoods, will become a spot where people can play, celebrate, work, and connect. The city is listening closely to its residents to make sure the new space respects the past while welcoming the future. Together, Cape Town hopes to turn the old quarry into a bright, shared treasure for everyone.

Illuminations Across the Vines: The Spier Light Art Exhibition as a Living Canvas

The Spier Light Art Exhibition in Stellenbosch is a magical outdoor event that turns a quiet vineyard into a glowing playground of light and creativity. Artists from near and far use colorful lights to tell stories about history, community, and technology, inviting visitors to explore and interact with the shining artworks. As night falls, the farm transforms into a living canvas where light dances, sparks imagination, and connects people through shared wonder. This event is more than art—it’s a joyful celebration of light’s power to inspire and unite.

Cape Town’s New Dawn: Redefining Urban Justice Through “Invested in Hope”

Cape Town’s “Invested in Hope” budget puts nearly R40 billion toward building fairer, kinder neighborhoods by focusing on free basic services, support for pensioners, and job creation. This plan helps people who need it most, giving them water, electricity, and relief from property taxes. By investing in homes and jobs, the city is healing old wounds from apartheid and making sure everyone feels part of the community. Stories from residents like Nontombi and Zanele show how this hope turns into real, everyday changes. Cape Town’s bold steps offer a shining example of how cities can grow with fairness and care for all.

the ultimate mother city guide

The South African Renewable Energy Masterplan: Harnessing the Power of Green Energy