CSIR ScienceScope: An Energy-secure South Africa

Abstract

Energy is a key economic and environmental driver. South Africa, with a large endowment of coal, has an electricity production system that is highly carbon intensive. It generates two-thirds of Africa's electricity, approximately 90% of which is generated from coal. The CSIR is also exploring ways of distributed rather than centralised power generation, which could result in shorter construction lead times and higher cycle efficiency. Energy efficient buildings will contribute to sustainability issues, especially as buildings use more than 25% of national energy consumption. "An Energy-secure South Africa" the theme of this ScienceScope, features a multidisciplinary projects of the R&D work done on alternative energy solutions, clean and cleaner energy technologies, energy in rural South Africa/ Africa and energy efficiency.