Electricity in South Africa in 2023/2024

In the 12 months from July 2023 to June 2024, electricity generation in South Africa heavily relies on fossil fuels, with coal contributing to over 80% of the total electricity production. The overall fossil energy generation accounts for about 83% of the total. In contrast, low-carbon or clean energy sources together comprise around 17% of electricity production. Solar and wind, as the two main clean sources, produce nearly 8% and 5% respectively, while nuclear energy contributes just under 4%. These figures clearly indicate that more than half of South Africa's electricity generation relies on fossil fuels, prompting a need for increasing the share of low-carbon energy to mitigate climate change and reduce pollution.

Suggestions

To enhance low-carbon electricity generation, South Africa can draw lessons from nations that have successfully expanded their clean energy sectors. Countries like France and Slovakia effectively utilize nuclear power, generating 67% and 60% of their electricity from this source. Denmark, producing 59% of its electricity through wind power, presents an example of harnessing wind energy effectively. Geographically and economically comparable countries like Ukraine utilize nuclear energy as a substantial component, comprising 55% of their electricity mix. South Africa can aim to increase its nuclear and wind energy capacities by investing in infrastructure and policies that support these sectors. Such strategic expansion will not only cater to growing electricity demands but also foster a sustainable energy future.

History

Historically, South Africa has experienced various shifts in its low-carbon electricity generation. In the mid-1980s to the early 1990s, nuclear energy saw fluctuations with notable increases and declines, for instance, in 1987 and 1990 where nuclear generation dropped significantly. This inconsistency continued into the early 2000s and again around 2018 and 2020, marking periods of decline that underlined the need for a stable and strategic commitment to nuclear energy. In contrast, recent years have seen positive change, notably in 2023/2024 with a substantial increase of 11.6 TWh in solar energy generation, signifying a promising step towards clean energy diversification. There have been efforts since 2011 to increase electricity generation from other low-carbon sources like wind and hydro, showing South Africa's potential for a more sustainable and resilient energy mix.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources