This Southern African Alternative Energy Association(SAAEA)article reports that "THE government and the private sector are to launch a campaign that will protect the environment and keep cities clean.
Buyisela, which means give back, is a project by the department of water and environmental affairs , Indalo Yethu and Buyisa eBag.The project will create 10 eco-towns modelled on sustainability as a legacy project which will serve as a framework blueprint for other towns to follow."
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Optimum colliery cleans up its water act
This Business Report tells how "Optimum Coal yesterday opened South Africa's second plant to treat water for acid mine drainage in Middelburg at a cost of R600 million, as the government said mining houses should clean up or risk eligibility for water-use licences."
Friday, June 11, 2010
SolaireDirect expects solar parks to take off in South Africa
Engineering News: "The fact that a solar park had no fuel costs was a definite advantage. "This has two important impacts, number one, we are not reliant on any fossil fuel, and in production we don't create any greenhouse gases. Furthermore, that gives price certainty. When you build a solar park you know on day number one what the electricity price from that solar park will be on the last day of the twenty-fifth or the thirtieth year of operation, so it introduces a commercial certainty to the price of electricity," Hammond reiterated.
"That is really where solar power has a significant role to play in a country like South Africa. Not just making our overall generation portfolio greener, but also providing price, and hence commercial stability to the cost of electricity," he concluded." Read more here, on Engineering News.
"That is really where solar power has a significant role to play in a country like South Africa. Not just making our overall generation portfolio greener, but also providing price, and hence commercial stability to the cost of electricity," he concluded." Read more here, on Engineering News.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
New energy-efficiency rating tool unveiled for SA buildings
This Engineering News article reports: "A new electricity consumption rating tool - which, if widely adopted, could set in motion the creation of a national energy-efficiency benchmark database of South Africa's building stock - was unveiled on Wednesday night, together with the identities of some of the country's top-performing corporate head offices and shopping centres.
The so-called ‘Energy Barometer' is the product of five years of research and development, undertaken by Energy Cybernetics."
The so-called ‘Energy Barometer' is the product of five years of research and development, undertaken by Energy Cybernetics."
City of Cape Town's Energy Plans
Check out this fairly recent Tygerburger newspaper article outlining the City's plans which includes reducing the City's electricity consumption by 10% by 2012 and to supply a 10% increase in renewable and cleaner energy supply by 2020 to low income/vunerable communities.
Greening initiatives launched to offset World Cup carbon emissions
"The three initiatives launched on Tuesday were: Greener lighting for World Cup host cities; green passport; and offsetting teams emissions." [...] "The green passport initiative was aimed at raising awareness, and encouraging visitors to make responsible travel choices while in the country.
The 32-page booklet would be distributed to 100 000 soccer spectators, and would be handed out by volunteers at airports and hotels for example." More on Engineering News.
The 32-page booklet would be distributed to 100 000 soccer spectators, and would be handed out by volunteers at airports and hotels for example." More on Engineering News.
IRP 2010 Sessions - Feedback
Necsa's push for nuclear power upsets renewable energy stakeholders - Engineering News - "The State-owned Nuclear Energy Corporation of South Africa (Necsa) emphasised at the second day of the Integrated Resource Plan 2010 (IRP2010) stakeholder plenary session in Pretoria that nuclear was the only viable baseload option that could meet South Africa's future energy needs and counter carbon emissions." [...] "However, Linington's statements stirred the crowd with other stakeholders such as Climate Justice Now and Earthlife Africa rejecting nuclear as a baseload generation technology, owing to its financial and social costs being too high and nuclear waste and accidents posing a serious threat.
Smart Green Prosperity's John Joslin said that the IRP2010 process could not discriminate against the country's future generations. "The government cannot ignore the costly damage that would be inflicted on its people and environment if the wrong decisions were to be made."
DoE hints that mandatory savings will be part of power plan - Engineering News - This Engineering News informs us that "The Department of Energy (DoE) confirmed on Monday that demand-side management and energy efficiency would be key features of South Africa's second Integrated Resource Plan, or IRP2010, particularly between 2011 and 2013, when South Africa's already low reserve margin was likely to dip back into single figures."
Govt policies will be considered in structuring SA electricity plan - Engineering News - This article states: "South Africa's future energy mix is likely to comprise coal, nuclear, gas, renewable technologies, hydro and pumped storage. [...] Magubane emphasised that climate change policies and South Africa's drive to cut its carbon emissions would be accounted for in the structuring of the IRP2010. South Africa committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 34% below the business-as-usual growth trajectory by 2025."
Interim ISMO may be established to facilitate IPP deals - Engineering News - "The Department of Energy (DoE) confirmed on Monday that it was considering establishing an interim Independent Systems and Market Operator (ISMO) to facilitate buying arrangements with independent power producers (IPPs) trying to enter the South African market."
Exxaro to build clean energy power plants - Engineering News - "South African diversified miner Exxaro said on Tuesday it planned to develop clean energy power projects with total capacity of 350 MW with the first project expected to come on stream in mid-2012."
Smart Green Prosperity's John Joslin said that the IRP2010 process could not discriminate against the country's future generations. "The government cannot ignore the costly damage that would be inflicted on its people and environment if the wrong decisions were to be made."
DoE hints that mandatory savings will be part of power plan - Engineering News - This Engineering News informs us that "The Department of Energy (DoE) confirmed on Monday that demand-side management and energy efficiency would be key features of South Africa's second Integrated Resource Plan, or IRP2010, particularly between 2011 and 2013, when South Africa's already low reserve margin was likely to dip back into single figures."
Govt policies will be considered in structuring SA electricity plan - Engineering News - This article states: "South Africa's future energy mix is likely to comprise coal, nuclear, gas, renewable technologies, hydro and pumped storage. [...] Magubane emphasised that climate change policies and South Africa's drive to cut its carbon emissions would be accounted for in the structuring of the IRP2010. South Africa committed to reducing its carbon emissions by 34% below the business-as-usual growth trajectory by 2025."
Interim ISMO may be established to facilitate IPP deals - Engineering News - "The Department of Energy (DoE) confirmed on Monday that it was considering establishing an interim Independent Systems and Market Operator (ISMO) to facilitate buying arrangements with independent power producers (IPPs) trying to enter the South African market."
Exxaro to build clean energy power plants - Engineering News - "South African diversified miner Exxaro said on Tuesday it planned to develop clean energy power projects with total capacity of 350 MW with the first project expected to come on stream in mid-2012."
Friday, June 4, 2010
World Environment Day, 5th June 2010
Did you know that 5th June is World Environment Day [WED] and June is Environment month? "World Environment Day (WED) 2010 is aimed to be the biggest, most widely celebrated, global day for positive, environmental action. Commemorated on 5 June since 1972, WED is one of the principal vehicles through which the UN stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and encourages political attention and action." Find out more about how you can get involved in this campaign here. For those of you living in the Western Cape, consider joining us on 16th June 2010 (Weds) from 10h30 to 12h00 in Milnerton for our Annual General Meeting. We will be presenting a list of projects at the meeting which you can head up or get involved in. For more information or to r.s.v.p., contact us on info at freelifeonearth.org.
Also check out this Urban Sprout article for more great ideas from other similar-minded organisations.
Also check out this Urban Sprout article for more great ideas from other similar-minded organisations.
Kenyan Companies Generating Own Power to Save Costs
This Engineering News article informs us how, in Kenya, companies are looking at generating their own power to save on costs. Although, we may not agree with their choice of power generation, this article points to the solution of decentralising power generation and would be a great way for SA companies to do the same, if only they are provided with an enabling environment to do so and if their choice of power is renewable.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
News Snippets
June will be a ‘watershed month’ for climate talks – WWF - Engineering News
Guateng Outlines Green-economy Plan - Engineering News
GridCars' electric vehicle project hopes for transport revolution - Engineering News
Guateng Outlines Green-economy Plan - Engineering News
GridCars' electric vehicle project hopes for transport revolution - Engineering News
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Municipal power tariffs come under the spotlight as July 1 deadline looms
Read more here, Engineering News. "The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) will host a public hearing on June 3 into applications by those municipalities applying for average tariff increases above the guideline of 19% and 22%, which could be implemented from July 1."
Monday, May 24, 2010
French farmers turn Champs-Elysees into huge farm
This BBC news article reports: "One of Paris's main thoroughfares, the Champs-Elysees, has been covered in earth and turned into a huge green space in an event staged by young French farmers. "
Alstom invests $55m in solar company BrightSource
This Engineering News article tells: "French engineering group Alstom has invested $55-million in solar thermal tower producer BrightSource Energy, as the group sought to enter the high-growth solar energy market."
Eastern Cape wind turbine connected to grid
This Engineering News article reports: "The first turbine of the Coega wind farm project in the Nelson Mandela Bay municipality (NMBM) in the Eastern Cape has been erected and was being connected to the grid on Friday."
SA starts work on green-economy strategy
This Engineering News article informs us: "Participants at the Green Economy summit in Johannesburg, on Thursday committed to drawing up a ‘Green Economy Plan' by the end of July, which will outline the work required to develop the key elements of a green-economy strategy." A draft statement of conclusion was drawn up by the summit which is available for public comment. To find out more, visit the Summit's website here.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
News in a Flash
Green energy sector could create 300 000 jobs – Patel - Engineering News
Joule electric car developer signs MOUs, determines likely pricing - Engineering News
SA should switch to a sustainable transport system - Engineering News
SA mulls the costs, benefits of transition to green economy - Engineering News
SA should take advantage of multibillion rand green economy potential - Engineering News
Govt calls for open discussion with industry to advance clean energy - Engineering News
Cheap, clean energy in Africa given $12m boost - Engineering News - "The World Bank and International Finance Corporation have budgeted $12-million to begin weaning Africa's off-grid energy market away from its dependence on expensive fuel-based lighting, an official said on Tuesday.
The programme, Lighting Africa, targets low-cost renewable energy sources, such as solar-powered lanterns, to reach the 700-million Africans they say will be without electricity by 2030."
Joule electric car developer signs MOUs, determines likely pricing - Engineering News
SA should switch to a sustainable transport system - Engineering News
SA mulls the costs, benefits of transition to green economy - Engineering News
SA should take advantage of multibillion rand green economy potential - Engineering News
Govt calls for open discussion with industry to advance clean energy - Engineering News
Cheap, clean energy in Africa given $12m boost - Engineering News - "The World Bank and International Finance Corporation have budgeted $12-million to begin weaning Africa's off-grid energy market away from its dependence on expensive fuel-based lighting, an official said on Tuesday.
The programme, Lighting Africa, targets low-cost renewable energy sources, such as solar-powered lanterns, to reach the 700-million Africans they say will be without electricity by 2030."
Monday, May 17, 2010
UN to pick Costa Rican as new climate chief – sources
This Engineering News article informs us that "Figueres, 53, beat fellow short-listed candidate former South African Environment Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk, to a role meant to rally global agreement on a successor to the Kyoto Protocol after a disappointing summit in Copenhagen in December."..."Figueres has been a member of the Costa Rican climate negotiating team since 1995 and has held many senior posts in the UN climate process. Her father, Jose Figueres Ferrer, was President of Costa Rica three times."..."She has been negotiator for a country that aims to become carbon-neutral by 2021. This is what we need on the global stage," said Wendel Trio, Greenpeace International climate policy coordinator."
News Snippets
Solar car race on the cards for September - Engineering News - "South Africa’s second solar challenge will take place from September 26 to October 6."..."AEF chairperson Winstone Jordaan says the race will start in Pretoria, using the N1 freeway to reach Cape Town, switching to the N2 to travel to Durban, then moving on to more interesting back roads to again reach the Jacaranda city."
New SA energy plan running behind schedule – DDG - Engineering News
Eskom at ‘severe' regulatory risk from climate change – study - Engineering News - "...the overall thrust of the study, which has been released just days before government hosts ‘South Africa's Green Economy Summit', which will take place in Johannesburg from May 18 to May 20, is a highlighting of the fact that climate change has "moved from an issue of environmental concern to an issue of commercial significance"."
Basil Read invests R2,5m in solar power for head office - Engineering News - "Civil engineering and construction group Basil Read on Thursday unveiled a 240-panel solar photovoltaic installation, which provides about 25% of the power requirement at the company's head office in Boksburg."
SA shows strong growth in green building, energy efficiency – Legrand - Engineering News - "French electrical automation company Legrand said on Thursday that even though South Africa was still a relatively "newcomer" to the green building industry, the market had shown significant growth over the past three years."
Africa losing billions in clean energy deals - Engineering News - "Africa stood to loose billions of dollars because a lack of economic incentives and inadequate regulatory regimes made the continent unattractive for wind power companies, a top industry official said on Thursday."
New SA energy plan running behind schedule – DDG - Engineering News
Eskom at ‘severe' regulatory risk from climate change – study - Engineering News - "...the overall thrust of the study, which has been released just days before government hosts ‘South Africa's Green Economy Summit', which will take place in Johannesburg from May 18 to May 20, is a highlighting of the fact that climate change has "moved from an issue of environmental concern to an issue of commercial significance"."
Basil Read invests R2,5m in solar power for head office - Engineering News - "Civil engineering and construction group Basil Read on Thursday unveiled a 240-panel solar photovoltaic installation, which provides about 25% of the power requirement at the company's head office in Boksburg."
SA shows strong growth in green building, energy efficiency – Legrand - Engineering News - "French electrical automation company Legrand said on Thursday that even though South Africa was still a relatively "newcomer" to the green building industry, the market had shown significant growth over the past three years."
Africa losing billions in clean energy deals - Engineering News - "Africa stood to loose billions of dollars because a lack of economic incentives and inadequate regulatory regimes made the continent unattractive for wind power companies, a top industry official said on Thursday."
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Solar News
JHB roads agency to roll out solar power to 50 more intersections - Source: Engineering News
First solar geysers by June from new E Cape plant - Engineering News
First solar geysers by June from new E Cape plant - Engineering News
Largest ‘Green Electricity’ Certificate purchase statement to date
Since the City of Cape Town have started selling 'green' electricity certificates (find out more here), we have now learned that the City is handing over the largest 'green electricity' certificate purchase statement to date at the Wind Power Africa 2010 Conference being held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 12 to 14 May 2010 (find out more here).
Mayoral Committee Member for Utility Services, Alderman Clive Justus, will present Hermann Oelsner of the African Wind Energy Association with the statement which confirms that 9900 kWh of Green Electricity Certificates have been purchased.
Mayoral Committee Member for Utility Services, Alderman Clive Justus, will present Hermann Oelsner of the African Wind Energy Association with the statement which confirms that 9900 kWh of Green Electricity Certificates have been purchased.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Eastern Cape wind farm to supply power to World Cup stadium
This Engineering News article reports: "The 25-turbine Coega wind farm project in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) in the Eastern Cape, was officially launched by Energy Minister Dipuo Peters on Tuesday." and it is hoped that the first turbine will be up and running in time to "provide energy for the Nelson Mandela Bay stadium during the 2010 FIFA World Cup - free of charge."
Thin Film Solar Cells - New Developments
This Simply Green article highlights recent developments resulting in improved efficiency of this technology and a cheaper, faster, cleaner and less cumbersome way of manufacturing thin film solar cells.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Co2 Storage Guidelines Published (Norway)
Should be interesting to inspect these guidelines apparently made available freely on the website of Det Norske Veritas. Read more here.
The False Argument of Job Creation or Change to a Low Carbon Economy
This Engineering News article highlights the two sides of the coin. While continuing down the carbon path may resolve short term job creation issues, what will happen in the long haul and shouldn't the quality of jobs also be considered?
The article reports Peet Du Plooy, the head of sustainable development at Trade and Industrial Policy Strategies (Tips) warning "that South Africa's very competitiveness as an economy was at stake, as the market access for its goods and services could, in future, be constrained by the carbon-intensive nature of production processes."
"He argued that the transition to a lower-carbon economy could well be key to both protecting jobs, as well as to creating new ones."
The article reports Peet Du Plooy, the head of sustainable development at Trade and Industrial Policy Strategies (Tips) warning "that South Africa's very competitiveness as an economy was at stake, as the market access for its goods and services could, in future, be constrained by the carbon-intensive nature of production processes."
"He argued that the transition to a lower-carbon economy could well be key to both protecting jobs, as well as to creating new ones."
Extension of Comment Period for Nuclear 1
The public comment period for Eskom's proposed nuclear power station dubbed "Nuclear 1"'s draft Environmental Impact report has been extended to 31 May 2010. Find out more here.
Electric Vehicle Infrastructure in Mauritius
This Engineering News article tells that "Supercharge is a private company which plans to roll out and operate the infrastructure to support electric vehicles in Mauritius."
Monday, May 3, 2010
Energy leaders to gather in May for two-day summit
Engineering News informed us about this planned event. Read more here. "A limited number of delegate day passes are still available and those interested in taking them up can contact Dylan James at, dylan@capemedia.co.za, or by phoning 021 681 7000."
GM's electric networked concept car
This Engineering News article informs us about a new concept electric networked vehicle (EN-V)developed by General Motors and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC). "EN-V provides an “ideal solution for urban mobility that enables future driving to be
free from petroleum and emissions, free from congestion and accidents, and more fun and
fashionable than ever before”, says GM China Group president and MD Kevin Wale."
News Snippets
Solar energy system to power Diepsloot skills centre - Engineering News - "The City of Johannesburg (CoJ), the Department of Mineral Resources and cement manufacturer Pretoria Portland Cement (PPC) on Thursday launched the Diepsloot skills development centre solar energy system, a R1,7-million project consisting of 75 photovoltaic panels to provide the centre with electricity."
SA could be a global leader in greening the built environment – Doidge - Engineering News - "Public Works Minister Geoff Doidge on Thursday reiterated a "call for action" to move towards a ‘greener' built environment - which would need leadership from government, as well as expertise and innovation from industry.
Addressing delegates gathered at the alive2green green building conference in Johannesburg, Doidge said that there was no reason why South Africa could not be an international leader in greening the built environment, as it had the technical and manufacturing capacity."
Areva keen to enter SA solar power industry - Engineering News
Business seeks outcomes-based engagement on SA energy crisis - Engineering News
SA could be a global leader in greening the built environment – Doidge - Engineering News - "Public Works Minister Geoff Doidge on Thursday reiterated a "call for action" to move towards a ‘greener' built environment - which would need leadership from government, as well as expertise and innovation from industry.
Addressing delegates gathered at the alive2green green building conference in Johannesburg, Doidge said that there was no reason why South Africa could not be an international leader in greening the built environment, as it had the technical and manufacturing capacity."
Areva keen to enter SA solar power industry - Engineering News
Business seeks outcomes-based engagement on SA energy crisis - Engineering News
Thursday, April 29, 2010
More News
Next phase of solar geyser roll-out to incorporate greater local content - Engineering News
Wind-energy developer teams up with E Cape traditional leaders - Engineering News
Key developing country bloc puts climate ball back in rich-country court - Engineering News
IDC studies large-scale SA manufacture of lithium-ion batteries - Engineering News
Algal biofuels seen as having potential, but much research still needed - Engineering News
SA could learn lessons from Israel’s solar successes - Engineering News
Wind-energy developer teams up with E Cape traditional leaders - Engineering News
Key developing country bloc puts climate ball back in rich-country court - Engineering News
IDC studies large-scale SA manufacture of lithium-ion batteries - Engineering News
Algal biofuels seen as having potential, but much research still needed - Engineering News
SA could learn lessons from Israel’s solar successes - Engineering News
Friday, April 23, 2010
News in a Rush
Eskom aims to secure balance of funding for wind, solar projects this year - Engineering News
Japanese Embassy switches to solar power - Engineering News
Peters promises cleaner-fuels ‘roadmap' by December - Engineering News
More cohesion on climate change ‘urgently’ needed – China - Engineering News
President Zuma to kick-start big solar-geyser drive - Engineering News
R5,3bn energy efficiency incentive confirmed - Engineering News
Greater carbon reduction urgency needed, expert says - Engineering News
Include Parliament in 'every step' of climate policy process – MP - Engineering News
Japanese Embassy switches to solar power - Engineering News
Peters promises cleaner-fuels ‘roadmap' by December - Engineering News
More cohesion on climate change ‘urgently’ needed – China - Engineering News
President Zuma to kick-start big solar-geyser drive - Engineering News
R5,3bn energy efficiency incentive confirmed - Engineering News
Greater carbon reduction urgency needed, expert says - Engineering News
Include Parliament in 'every step' of climate policy process – MP - Engineering News
Earthlife Africa Demonstration Outside Parliament Earlier Today
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Earthlife Africa demonstrated against a nuclear and coal future and for a clean energy future for SA in front of Parliament in Cape Town today. Earthlife Africa handed over "information from civil society about the economics of our power choices today; approaches to a future sustainable economy; and information that can assist many energy struggles today", This action was "joined by: AIDC; SA Water Caucus; Carbon Trade Watch; Trade Strategy Group; Climate Justice Now!; SA Coalition for Environmental Justice", Free Life on Earth, and more. Click here to read a copy of the letter submitted by our chairman, David, regarding grid-tie inverters and solar water geysers.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Separate Power Transmission Company to be Formed Soon
This Engineering News article informs us that "The long-anticipated unbundling of the power transmission business from State-owned electricity utility Eskom might finally take place over the coming months as the Independent Systems and Market Operator, or ISMO, emerges as a separate entity."... and... "Engineering News Online understands that the legal framework for the creation of the ISMO should be outlined soon, and could well be in place by early 2011." We hope that this new entity will truly be an independent decision-making entity and that this is not going to be nothing more than 'shuffling of paper'!
Friday, April 16, 2010
Renewable Energy Partnership Launched on Weds
This Engineering News article follows Saturday's post about the financial boost received from Finland and Austria. The RE partnership of Southern and East Africa countries (South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Tanzania and Zambia)is called the Energy and Environment Partnership programme with Southern and East Africa (EEP-SE&A) and it was officially launched on Wednesday the 14th of April 2010. Read more here, on Engineering News.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
SA Lagging Behind in Clean Energy Projects
This Engineering News article reveals: "Some of the potential project developers are reluctant because of that ...there is need for a new protocol or a new accord. The previous Copenhagen accord did not come up with a new protocol (beyond) 2012."
According to Tuwani, South Africa has 17 CDM projects registered to date, of which only four have been issued with CERs. The top two nations in the scheme, according to UN figures, are China with 787 projects and India with 498." Read more here.
According to Tuwani, South Africa has 17 CDM projects registered to date, of which only four have been issued with CERs. The top two nations in the scheme, according to UN figures, are China with 787 projects and India with 498." Read more here.
Feedback from Latest UN Climate Change Talks - Bonn, Germany
"The first round of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) talks for the year concluded on Sunday with an agreement to intensify the negotiating schedule to enable a strong outcome in the Mexico meeting at the end of the year." Source: Engineering News (read more here.)
City of Cape Town to Soon Sell "Green Electricity" Certificates
An update (dated 24 March 2010) on the selling of 'green' electricity certificates from Darling Wind Farm by the City of Cape Town to interested parties can be read on the City of Cape Town's website here.
First Annual Climate Change Leadership Awards
Although this bit of news is a bit old, if you are interested, you can find details of the winners of the First Annual Climate Change Leadership Awards 2010, here.
Two new wind projects on the cards for Eastern Cape
Source: Engineering News - "Independent power producer (IPP) Rainmaker Energy plans to add 610 MW of wind-generated electricity to South Africa’s power grid through the development of two new projects in the Eastern Cape.
The company was working on developing a 550-MW wind farm, called the Dorper project, near Molteno, and another 60-MW wind farm, called the AB’s project, near Indwe." Read more at Engineering News.
The company was working on developing a 550-MW wind farm, called the Dorper project, near Molteno, and another 60-MW wind farm, called the AB’s project, near Indwe." Read more at Engineering News.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Some Thoughts on the Approval of the World Bank Loan to Eskom
This article, written by Mark Swilling and published in the Cape Times on 7 April 2010, is worth the read.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Boost for RE in Africa - from Europe
European countries, Germany, Finland and Austria are ploughing more money into boosting renewable energy development in SA and Africa.
Germany gives SA €70m for energy - Engineering News
Southern and East Africa renewable projects get €10m boost - Engineering News
Germany gives SA €70m for energy - Engineering News
Southern and East Africa renewable projects get €10m boost - Engineering News
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Draft IRP2 Consultation Process
This Engineering News article gives some insight regarding the consultation process (for the second draft Integrated (Energy) Resource Plan) set to begin this month (April) and carry on through to May. "..., Minister Peters promised that the plan [IRP1], which was coal and Eskom heavy, would be followed up by a more comprehensive plan [IRP2], which would be broadly consulted and would spell out the detail of South Africa's energy mix for next 20 years, including the role of renewables, nuclear, independent power producers and imports." "...the Department of Energy (DoE) has also called on all interested parties to register on a stakeholder database for inclusion in the IRP2 consultation process..."
Successful Test Flight for Solar Plane
Read this BBC News article: "A prototype solar-powered plane has made its first full test flight - coming closer to the goal of using solar energy to fly around the world."
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
National Air Quality Act Come into Full Effect on 1 April 2010
Read more here, on The Citizen. "The act requires the national environment minister or an MEC to “identify and publish activities which result in atmospheric emissions that requires an atmospheric emission licence before they can operate”, the department said in a statement."
Some Thoughts on World Bank Loan to Eskom
Read this Renewed Energy blog post about the proposed World Bank loan to Eskom to fund new coal-fired power stations in South Africa. [Link to sign Avaaz's petition against the granting of the World Bank Loan: http://www.avaaz.org/en/no_eskom_coal_loan/?cl=520250123&v=5638]
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Clarity on REFIT Selection Criteria Seeked
This Engineering News article reports: "The National Energy Regulator of South Africa's (Nersa's) renewable energy feed-in tariff (Refit) programme's project selection criteria required more clarity, renewable energy associations said on Tuesday."
UN List Reveals over 110 Nations back Copenhagen Accord
This Engineering News article reports that the (first formal) recently released UN list of nations backing the Copenhagen Accord shows that over 110 nations back it.
Darling Wind Farm Expanding?
This Legalbrief report states: "The company behind the Darling Wind Farm has announced that the plant will be expanded by next year, creating a farm with 20 turbines, says a Cape Argus report." [no further details available at this stage]
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
The Quality of Our Air
This Engineering News article highlights the launching of a website which allows the public to gain air quality information posted by air quality monitoring stations across the country. Many air quality monitoring stations still need to sign up, however we hope that this new service will prove to be a valuable resource in raising awareness about air pollution and getting the 'powers that be' to do something about it! Read more on Engineering News or check out the website here.
New Biofuel Law for Angola
This Engineering News article informs us that the Angolan Parliament have recently approved a new biofuel law: "Oil Minister Botelho de Vasconcelos said several foreign firms were interested in investing in sugar and ethanol production in Angola and dismissed fears that the land used to grow biofuel crops would displace small-scale farmers."
Monday, March 29, 2010
Earth Hour 2010
This year's "Earth Hour", 20h30 to 21h30 on Saturday night the 27th March 2010 has come and gone. To read up on how it went internationally, visit: www.earthhour.org.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Tremendous Opportunities in SA for Development of Green Technologies
This Engineering News article reports on how "UK government adviser on the economics of climate change and development Sir Nicholas Stern on Wednesday told South African business leaders that there were tremendous opportunities in South Africa for the development of low carbon, or ‘green' technologies, as the country had a tradition of creativity and looking to the future." "He also cautioned that there were risks - such as reputational risk, shareholder activism, and not being able to attract employees - associated with not getting involved with the move towards a lower carbon economy. "If you don't get involved, you will get left behind. And your investors and shareholders will worry."
Power purchase agreements are being prioritised - Deputy Minister
This Engineering News article reports that "Public Enterprises Deputy Minister Enoch Godongwana on Monday reaffirmed the South African government's commitment to "put an end to the chapter" of independent power producers (IPPs) struggling to conclude power purchase agreements (PPAs)." and goes on to say: "The DoE further noted that a midterm review of the renewable energy policy and target was currently under way, and was expected to produce a revised White paper and targets by December 2010." but: "The DoE said that the second integrated resources plan, which was expected to be released by June 2010, would reaffirm the current renewable energy target of 10 000 GWh by 2013.
Sandton hotel installs solar-water heating system
This Engineering News article reports that "The solar water heating system is capable of preheating 30 000 litres of water before it enters the hotel's electrical heating system, which is expected to reduce the electricity usage by about 60%." and "It was estimated that 500 000 kWh/y of electricity would be saved, while some 210 t of carbon-dioxide emissions would be mitigated.
The installation consists of 117 2-kWh flat plate collectors, which use Israeli technology, and are said to be reliable, and easy to maintain."
The installation consists of 117 2-kWh flat plate collectors, which use Israeli technology, and are said to be reliable, and easy to maintain."
Olifants river study under way to identify potential stressors
This Engineering News article informs us about an important study underway which "will eventually identify the sources of different stressors to the river system, develop and refine appropriate water quality management responses, decision-making processes, and remediation measures for the rivers in the catchment area."
"The stressors are many. Owing to the amount of human interference in terms of mining, power generation, industry, agriculture and sewage treatment in the catchment area of the Olifants river, it has been described as one of the most polluted rivers in Southern Africa." Engineering News.
"The stressors are many. Owing to the amount of human interference in terms of mining, power generation, industry, agriculture and sewage treatment in the catchment area of the Olifants river, it has been described as one of the most polluted rivers in Southern Africa." Engineering News.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
News Snippets
African universities should step up climate research - Sonjica - Source: Engineering News
SA's Industrial Development Corp takes stake in Kenya Wind Project - Source: Engineering News
SA seeks to make virtue of necessity with green-industries plan - Source: Engineering News
"Eskom Goes Low Carbon" News article - A closer look. Source: Renewed Energy
Trevor Manual appointed to UN Climate Group - Source: MSN News
Deforestation Conference - Some Feedback - Source: Red Orbit
Landfill sites to be Elimanated? Source: IOL
SA's Industrial Development Corp takes stake in Kenya Wind Project - Source: Engineering News
SA seeks to make virtue of necessity with green-industries plan - Source: Engineering News
"Eskom Goes Low Carbon" News article - A closer look. Source: Renewed Energy
Trevor Manual appointed to UN Climate Group - Source: MSN News
Deforestation Conference - Some Feedback - Source: Red Orbit
Landfill sites to be Elimanated? Source: IOL
Monday, March 8, 2010
International Monetary Fund Working on $100bn a Year Green Fund
This Engineering News article reports: "The International Monetary Fund (IMF) was “working on the idea of a green fund” to raise $100-billion a year by 2020 to mitigate the impacts of climate change on developing economies, IMF MD Dominique Strauss-Kahn told a conference in Kenya on Monday."
Van Schalkwyk to be new UN Climate Chief?
This Engineering News article informs us that: "The South African government has put forward the name of Tourism Minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk to the United Nations (UN) to potentially lead the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)."
Friday, March 5, 2010
SA to have selected first renewable IPP Projects by Q3
This Engineering News article tells us that: "By the third quarter of 2010, South Africa would have selected the renewable energy independent power producers (IPPs) to meet the country's target of 10 000 GWh of renewable energy by 2013, the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa) full-time regulator for electricity Thembani Bukula said on Tuesday."
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Santam to facilitate burst-geyser conversion to solar
This Engineering News article reports that: "Short-term insurer Santam confirmed on Wednesday that its residential clients would be able to replace burst electrical geysers with solar water heaters (SWHs), following the conclusion of a partnership with State-owned power utility Eskom, which has a rebate programme in place to support such a conversion process."
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
News in a Flash
Energy Targets - Guateng vs Western Cape
http://clean-energy.blogspot.com/2010/02/proposed-gauteng-vs-western-cape-energy.html
Carbon Tax
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/carbon-tax-could-cause-preemptive-buying-brand-pretorius-2010-03-01
http://clean-energy.blogspot.com/2010/02/car-carbon-tax.html
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/carbon-tax-discussion-document-to-be-released-by-mid-year-2010-02-22
Food for Fuel?
http://clean-energy.blogspot.com/2010/02/maize-farmers-urge-u-turn-on-biofuels.html
Eskom Tariff Increases vs Municipal Increases
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/energy-minister-implores-municipalities-to-heed-nersas-tariff-guidelines-2010-02-25
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/nersa-moves-to-prevent-municipalities-from-milking-eskom-price-hike-2010-02-24
Nersa approves 24,8% Eskom tariff hike for 2010, followed by two more of 25%-plus
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/nersa-approves-248-eskom-tariff-hike-for-201011-2010-02-24
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/regulator-sets-much-vaunted-block-tariff-structure-in-motion-2010-02-24
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/electricity-demand-to-return-to-2007-level-this-year---eskom-2010-02-24
Energy Planning
Energy Department to publish IRP2 by June
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/maqubela-2010-02-24
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/public-consultation-on-irp2-to-begin-in-april---doe-official-2010-02-19
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/high-level-committee-working-on-20-year-energy-vision---zuma-2010-02-11
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/competitive-bidding-may-be-preferable-to-licensing-energy-regulator-muses-2010-02-09
Coal Company into Clean Energy?
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/exxaro-to-form-clean-energy-company-2010-02-25-1
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/exxaro-targets-2-000-mw-from-renewable-sources-by-2030-2010-02-09
Nuclear undercurrents
http://clean-energy.blogspot.com/2010/02/nuclear-uncurrents.html
Socio-enviro Costs to be Considered When Making Power Choices
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/social-enviro-costs-must-be-included-when-making-power-choices-2010-02-23
Cutting Emissions
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/more-countries-pledge-to-cut-emissions-under-copenhagen-accord-2010-02-22
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/sa-business-urged-to-take-climate-action-early-2010-02-17
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/greenhouse-targets-no-burden-on-business---sonjica-2010-02-15
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/govt-urged-to-be-clear-on-climate-policy-2010-02-09
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/developing-nations-should-shift-towards-clean-growth-unctad-2010-02-08
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/sa-signs-climate-cooperation-agreement-with-australia-2010-02-05
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/copenhagen-generates-more-heat-than-light-for-business-and-policymakers-2010-02-05
Joule News
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/refined-pe-produced-joule-to-go-on-show-in-geneva-2010-02-22
Solar Geyser Project - Free State
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/advisers-sought-for-big-free-state-solar-geyser-project-2010-02-17
Green Building
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/jda-adds-green-building-to-inner-city-regeneration-awards-2010-02-11
http://clean-energy.blogspot.com/2010/02/proposed-gauteng-vs-western-cape-energy.html
Carbon Tax
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/carbon-tax-could-cause-preemptive-buying-brand-pretorius-2010-03-01
http://clean-energy.blogspot.com/2010/02/car-carbon-tax.html
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/carbon-tax-discussion-document-to-be-released-by-mid-year-2010-02-22
Food for Fuel?
http://clean-energy.blogspot.com/2010/02/maize-farmers-urge-u-turn-on-biofuels.html
Eskom Tariff Increases vs Municipal Increases
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/energy-minister-implores-municipalities-to-heed-nersas-tariff-guidelines-2010-02-25
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/nersa-moves-to-prevent-municipalities-from-milking-eskom-price-hike-2010-02-24
Nersa approves 24,8% Eskom tariff hike for 2010, followed by two more of 25%-plus
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/nersa-approves-248-eskom-tariff-hike-for-201011-2010-02-24
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/regulator-sets-much-vaunted-block-tariff-structure-in-motion-2010-02-24
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/electricity-demand-to-return-to-2007-level-this-year---eskom-2010-02-24
Energy Planning
Energy Department to publish IRP2 by June
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/maqubela-2010-02-24
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/public-consultation-on-irp2-to-begin-in-april---doe-official-2010-02-19
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/high-level-committee-working-on-20-year-energy-vision---zuma-2010-02-11
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/competitive-bidding-may-be-preferable-to-licensing-energy-regulator-muses-2010-02-09
Coal Company into Clean Energy?
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/exxaro-to-form-clean-energy-company-2010-02-25-1
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/exxaro-targets-2-000-mw-from-renewable-sources-by-2030-2010-02-09
Nuclear undercurrents
http://clean-energy.blogspot.com/2010/02/nuclear-uncurrents.html
Socio-enviro Costs to be Considered When Making Power Choices
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/social-enviro-costs-must-be-included-when-making-power-choices-2010-02-23
Cutting Emissions
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/more-countries-pledge-to-cut-emissions-under-copenhagen-accord-2010-02-22
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/sa-business-urged-to-take-climate-action-early-2010-02-17
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/greenhouse-targets-no-burden-on-business---sonjica-2010-02-15
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/govt-urged-to-be-clear-on-climate-policy-2010-02-09
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/developing-nations-should-shift-towards-clean-growth-unctad-2010-02-08
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/sa-signs-climate-cooperation-agreement-with-australia-2010-02-05
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/copenhagen-generates-more-heat-than-light-for-business-and-policymakers-2010-02-05
Joule News
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/refined-pe-produced-joule-to-go-on-show-in-geneva-2010-02-22
Solar Geyser Project - Free State
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/advisers-sought-for-big-free-state-solar-geyser-project-2010-02-17
Green Building
http://www.engineeringnews.co.za/article/jda-adds-green-building-to-inner-city-regeneration-awards-2010-02-11
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
SA Water Pollution: What We Need to Know
Acid Mine Drainage Situation in SA - read this BusinessDay report to find out how recent heavy rains in Witwatersrand has added to the water pollution crisis in the region caused by Acid Mine Drainage. It appears that even though officials have been warned about the severity of the problem long ago, it seems government is only now starting to give this matter some attention.
Wastewater Treatment Plants Situation in SA - read this News24 article about the delay of government releasing "a so-called "Green Drop" report on the state of South Africa's wastewater treatment plants". The DA believes the delay is due to the shocking content.
Wastewater Treatment Plants Situation in SA - read this News24 article about the delay of government releasing "a so-called "Green Drop" report on the state of South Africa's wastewater treatment plants". The DA believes the delay is due to the shocking content.
Update: Cape Coast Sea Level Rise Risk Assessment
In this IOL article, we are informed that "In a report submitted on Tuesday to the planning and environment portfolio committee, Darryl Colenbrander of strategy and planning, said the sea level risks can no longer be viewed as something to be addressed in the future but must be considered as a priority" in city planning."
Monday, February 1, 2010
First Municipal Landfill Gas Project in Africa Launched (Durban)
The Times Live article tells how a landfill gas plant which captures harmful methane gas from the Bisasar Road landfill site (Durban) has been recently launched by the eThekwini Municipality. It is said to produce eight megawatts of electricity and is expected to be paid off in 4 years and it goes on to say that "The city hoped to extract electricity from the site for about 15 years after the dumping of waste stopped."
UK Announces Feed In Tariffs for Small Scale Renewable & Low Carbon Electricity
This Renewable Energy Focus article reports: "The feed-in tariff will be available to householders and communities installing low carbon and renewable electricity technology such as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and wind turbines up to 5 MW." and, "Owners will be paid for electricity – even if they consume it themselves, and a further payment will be given for any electricity fed into the grid." "Owners can apply for the renewable and low carbon feed-in tariff from the electricity supplier from April 2010."
Sunday, January 31, 2010
More on SA's Energy Future
RENEWABLE ENERGY JOBS
This Engineering News article again highlights the findings of the Global Climate Network giving insight to how many jobs can be created by the renewable sector in SA.
NUCLEAR FOR SA?
This Engineering News article claims that the PBMR nuclear reactor is possibly still on the cards for SA. The company which has been funded with government money is waiting a decision on it's future based on input from government and its investors. It goes on to state: "It is likely that the choice of option will be dependent on the decision taken with regard to the bigger decision on the country’s new nuclear build programme. (In addition to PBMRs, South Africa plans to build one or more new pressure-water reactors)." We note the comment of a reader below the article: "Having ESKOM and NECSA review the PBMR is asking a car salesman whether you should buy a car! I sincerely hope they have some independent consultants advising on this too, as it seems the more we continue with the PBMR the more it is turning into a white elephant. Imagine the jobs the could have been unlocked in other sectors if the R&D budget had not been wasted on the PBMR."
ESKOM'S TARIFF INCREASE APPLICATION CALLED A 'FARCE' BY DA
Read this Engineering News article which reports the DA as saying that the tariff [application] "was in fact "null-and-void" as the application did not include enough renewable energy sources as required by law, the DA said in a statement." and, "Any application brought before Nersa must comply with several requirements, one of them being the amount of renewable energy which Eskom will produce as part of its total electricity generation..."
This Engineering News article again highlights the findings of the Global Climate Network giving insight to how many jobs can be created by the renewable sector in SA.
NUCLEAR FOR SA?
This Engineering News article claims that the PBMR nuclear reactor is possibly still on the cards for SA. The company which has been funded with government money is waiting a decision on it's future based on input from government and its investors. It goes on to state: "It is likely that the choice of option will be dependent on the decision taken with regard to the bigger decision on the country’s new nuclear build programme. (In addition to PBMRs, South Africa plans to build one or more new pressure-water reactors)." We note the comment of a reader below the article: "Having ESKOM and NECSA review the PBMR is asking a car salesman whether you should buy a car! I sincerely hope they have some independent consultants advising on this too, as it seems the more we continue with the PBMR the more it is turning into a white elephant. Imagine the jobs the could have been unlocked in other sectors if the R&D budget had not been wasted on the PBMR."
ESKOM'S TARIFF INCREASE APPLICATION CALLED A 'FARCE' BY DA
Read this Engineering News article which reports the DA as saying that the tariff [application] "was in fact "null-and-void" as the application did not include enough renewable energy sources as required by law, the DA said in a statement." and, "Any application brought before Nersa must comply with several requirements, one of them being the amount of renewable energy which Eskom will produce as part of its total electricity generation..."
Endless Supply of Coal?
PRICE OF COAL
Read this Renewed Energy article reporting on the price and supply of this non-renewable power commodity and its impact on an economy largely dependant on coal fired power stations for power. The environmental impact fact aside, it leaves one with the question of why our government is not urgently phasing it out and actively supporting the aggressive phasing in of renewable energy options offering 'free' 'non-commodity' type fuel supplies [purely for security of supply and future cost reasons].
COAL - MORE OR LESS DEMAND?
There have been two Engineering News articles recently about the demand of coal in SA. It is interesting to note how they contradict each other. One states that Eskom scales back coal demand forecast and then a more recent one states that Eskom sees power demand growth over 9% year on year. Any comments/insight?
WHAT DO MINING [AND OTHER] COMPANIES HAVE TO SAY?
This Engineering News article states: "South Africa's Chamber of Mines (CoM) has recommended a doubling of the amount of money set aside for the reduction of power demand between 2010 and 2013, which it said would help industry adapt to the tight supply/demand balances, while shoring up supply security." CoM said that the amount set aside [in Eskom's tariff application] for Demand Side Management [DSM] was not enough and it also stated that the cost of DSM should be covered by a green levy and not by a tariff increase.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
In the same Engineering News article, "Efficiency advocate Smart Green Prosperity argued that energy efficiency was by far the cheapest energy source, with Eskom's own application indicating that it would cost R5-billion to save 1 GW, as opposed to the R25-billion needed to build a 1-GW worth of new generation capacity."
Read this Renewed Energy article reporting on the price and supply of this non-renewable power commodity and its impact on an economy largely dependant on coal fired power stations for power. The environmental impact fact aside, it leaves one with the question of why our government is not urgently phasing it out and actively supporting the aggressive phasing in of renewable energy options offering 'free' 'non-commodity' type fuel supplies [purely for security of supply and future cost reasons].
COAL - MORE OR LESS DEMAND?
There have been two Engineering News articles recently about the demand of coal in SA. It is interesting to note how they contradict each other. One states that Eskom scales back coal demand forecast and then a more recent one states that Eskom sees power demand growth over 9% year on year. Any comments/insight?
WHAT DO MINING [AND OTHER] COMPANIES HAVE TO SAY?
This Engineering News article states: "South Africa's Chamber of Mines (CoM) has recommended a doubling of the amount of money set aside for the reduction of power demand between 2010 and 2013, which it said would help industry adapt to the tight supply/demand balances, while shoring up supply security." CoM said that the amount set aside [in Eskom's tariff application] for Demand Side Management [DSM] was not enough and it also stated that the cost of DSM should be covered by a green levy and not by a tariff increase.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
In the same Engineering News article, "Efficiency advocate Smart Green Prosperity argued that energy efficiency was by far the cheapest energy source, with Eskom's own application indicating that it would cost R5-billion to save 1 GW, as opposed to the R25-billion needed to build a 1-GW worth of new generation capacity."
Monday, January 25, 2010
Eco-conscious Business Practice
This Engineering News article tells how, at a recent 2010 Economic Outlook Conference, King Committee on Corporate Governance chairperson said "While the world would emerge from the global economic crisis in the not too distant future, the climate-change and biodiversity threats would linger". The article goes on to say, "There were more companies and corporations than governments in the world, making business the greatest potential agents of change. However, there had to be a mindset change to ensure that the world did more while using fewer natural resources." Also, "CEO of Beyond Payments, a subsidiary of Standard Bank, noted that individuals also had great influence on business and could influence businesses into adopting greater energy efficiency and environmental practices."
Feedback Following 'Basic Countries' Meeting in India
This Engineering News article reports that "The environmental Ministers of the so-called Basic group of countries, comprising Brazil, South Africa, India and China, have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring an agreed outcome at the global climate change conference scheduled for Mexico toward the end of 2010." "The members of the Basic group have already announced a series of voluntary mitigation actions by 2020, and expressed their intention to communicate these voluntary mitigation actions to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) by January 31. This was the deadline for countries to submit this information so that it could be incorporated into the Copenhagen Accord."
Sunday, January 24, 2010
News in a Flash
SA'S ENERGY SUPPLY FUTURE
The latest in the Eskom saga is former Eskom CEO, Jacob Maroga has filed a lawsuit against the utility for R85 million in damages (read more here). This follows the recent NERSA public hearings in which the public was given an opportunity to voice their concerns about Eskom's proposed tariff hike. There has been a lot in the news about this lately and it seems that an underlying thread is that we urgently need an electricity policy overhaul (although not everyone agrees on what sort of policy changes should be made). See below for some of the most recent stories:-
Dysfunctional Power Price Process Should Make Way for Political Decision - Engineering News
Busa laments price discussion in context of electricity policy void - Engineering News
Eskom's application the ‘only viable' submission - Makwana - Engineering News
Big tariff hikes will be ‘extremely challenging’ to absorb - CoM - Engineering News
NERSA is to make its final determination regarding Eskom's tariff increase application on February 24, 2010.
RENEWABLE ENERGY NEWS & VIEWS
SWH Subsidy Programme - Read this Renewed Energy post about the way in which the Solar Water Heater Subsidy Programme is currently set up in SA and how there is room for improvement.
SA gets additional finance for clean technology projects - Engineering News
CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY
SA aims to complete climate change policy by year-end - Engineering News
Big interventions needed to offset World Cup carbon emissions - Engineering News
The latest in the Eskom saga is former Eskom CEO, Jacob Maroga has filed a lawsuit against the utility for R85 million in damages (read more here). This follows the recent NERSA public hearings in which the public was given an opportunity to voice their concerns about Eskom's proposed tariff hike. There has been a lot in the news about this lately and it seems that an underlying thread is that we urgently need an electricity policy overhaul (although not everyone agrees on what sort of policy changes should be made). See below for some of the most recent stories:-
Dysfunctional Power Price Process Should Make Way for Political Decision - Engineering News
Busa laments price discussion in context of electricity policy void - Engineering News
Eskom's application the ‘only viable' submission - Makwana - Engineering News
Big tariff hikes will be ‘extremely challenging’ to absorb - CoM - Engineering News
NERSA is to make its final determination regarding Eskom's tariff increase application on February 24, 2010.
RENEWABLE ENERGY NEWS & VIEWS
SWH Subsidy Programme - Read this Renewed Energy post about the way in which the Solar Water Heater Subsidy Programme is currently set up in SA and how there is room for improvement.
SA gets additional finance for clean technology projects - Engineering News
CLIMATE CHANGE POLICY
SA aims to complete climate change policy by year-end - Engineering News
Big interventions needed to offset World Cup carbon emissions - Engineering News
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
News in a Flash
Cosatu will 'take to streets' if Eskom tariff approved [Engineering News]
Coalition Against Nuclear Energy responds to Eskom's Electricity Price Increase - Read more here.
UK firm enters SA Renewable Energy Market [Engineering News] The article states: "RES, which is in the process of establishing an office in Cape Town, said that the projects, located in the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape, were in the early stages of development, and have an estimated installed capacity of about 300 MW.
"We have studied the market thoroughly and believe it is a very good opportunity for private developers, as well as for the South African State and government, to be able to have large amounts of renewable energy within the next few years,"
Power Consumption 'Baseline Rules' Being Formulated to first be applied to SA's big Electricity Consumers. This Engineering News article states: "The final draft technical specifications outlining how power-consumption and -allocation baselines should be calculated have been completed and are being prepared for publication, opening the way for the implementation of the much-discussed power conservation programme (PCP), probably initially involving the country's 300 largest electricity users."
Coalition Against Nuclear Energy responds to Eskom's Electricity Price Increase - Read more here.
UK firm enters SA Renewable Energy Market [Engineering News] The article states: "RES, which is in the process of establishing an office in Cape Town, said that the projects, located in the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape, were in the early stages of development, and have an estimated installed capacity of about 300 MW.
"We have studied the market thoroughly and believe it is a very good opportunity for private developers, as well as for the South African State and government, to be able to have large amounts of renewable energy within the next few years,"
Power Consumption 'Baseline Rules' Being Formulated to first be applied to SA's big Electricity Consumers. This Engineering News article states: "The final draft technical specifications outlining how power-consumption and -allocation baselines should be calculated have been completed and are being prepared for publication, opening the way for the implementation of the much-discussed power conservation programme (PCP), probably initially involving the country's 300 largest electricity users."
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Large Caledon Wind Farm Planned
This Urban Sprout article tells us about the massive 150-turbine wind farm capable of generating 300MW of electricity which is planned for construction on 15 farms near Caledon.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Sunday, January 17, 2010
News in a Flash
POLYSILICON PLANT FOR SA [SOLAR ENERGY]?
"The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is planning to initiate a study into the viability of a polysilicon plant in South Africa, as interest in the solar energy market continues to grow." Read more here, at Engineering News.
WHAT TO DO WITH KUSILE [COAL FIRED POWER STATION]
This Engineering News article offers insight into the debate about what to do with the R142-billion Kusile Power Plant Project which is currently under construction. The article states that some argue that it is "the most expensive (on a kilowatt-for-kilowatt basis) in the world". It reports that Eskom is now also studying the possibility of increasing the stake available for purchase by private investors from 30% to 49%. It goes on to say "There was growing scepticism, however, about whether Eskom would indeed be able to secure any private interest in Kusile".
NEW CAR TAX TO START 1 MARCH 2010
This Engineering News article confirms that the planned CO2 emissions tax on new vehicles is to come into effect on 1 March 2010.
WWF SLAMS THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY'S INTEGRATED RESOURCE PLAN
The DoE published their power plan for SA at the "11th Hour" [the last day of December 2009]. WWF's Worthington was quoted as saying "“This gazetting of a so-called ‘Integrated Resource Plan’ makes a mockery of government policy and legislated requirements regarding integrated energy planning, in terms of both content and process,”. Read more, here on Engineering News.
WIND TURBINE MARKET TAKING OFF IN AFRICA
This Engineering News article reports that "The African large-scale wind turbine market would likely earn revenues of $424,3-million by 2015, a significant increase on the $148,4-million earned in 2008". It went on to report that "“The success of the wind power markets in Europe and the US has convinced many governments that wind power can assist in alleviating some of the power shortages in the continent...,”.
and "Wind power projects of between 120 MW and 300 MW have been announced in Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia and South Africa. Interest in the wind power markets in Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco was also growing." and "one major challenge to market expansion was that the power sector in many African countries was still regulated by monopoly control".
KENYA TURNS TO GREEN ENERGY ALTERNATIVES
Read more here, at Engineering News.
MIN WATER & ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS TO ATTEND POST COPENHAGEN MEETING ON 24 JANUARY 2010
Participants of the meeting, the "The so-called Basic (Brazil, South Africa, India, and China) countries" are to 'fill in the blanks' of the Copenhagen Accord (to be done by 31 January 2010). Read more here, on Engineering News.
"The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is planning to initiate a study into the viability of a polysilicon plant in South Africa, as interest in the solar energy market continues to grow." Read more here, at Engineering News.
WHAT TO DO WITH KUSILE [COAL FIRED POWER STATION]
This Engineering News article offers insight into the debate about what to do with the R142-billion Kusile Power Plant Project which is currently under construction. The article states that some argue that it is "the most expensive (on a kilowatt-for-kilowatt basis) in the world". It reports that Eskom is now also studying the possibility of increasing the stake available for purchase by private investors from 30% to 49%. It goes on to say "There was growing scepticism, however, about whether Eskom would indeed be able to secure any private interest in Kusile".
NEW CAR TAX TO START 1 MARCH 2010
This Engineering News article confirms that the planned CO2 emissions tax on new vehicles is to come into effect on 1 March 2010.
WWF SLAMS THE DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY'S INTEGRATED RESOURCE PLAN
The DoE published their power plan for SA at the "11th Hour" [the last day of December 2009]. WWF's Worthington was quoted as saying "“This gazetting of a so-called ‘Integrated Resource Plan’ makes a mockery of government policy and legislated requirements regarding integrated energy planning, in terms of both content and process,”. Read more, here on Engineering News.
WIND TURBINE MARKET TAKING OFF IN AFRICA
This Engineering News article reports that "The African large-scale wind turbine market would likely earn revenues of $424,3-million by 2015, a significant increase on the $148,4-million earned in 2008". It went on to report that "“The success of the wind power markets in Europe and the US has convinced many governments that wind power can assist in alleviating some of the power shortages in the continent...,”.
and "Wind power projects of between 120 MW and 300 MW have been announced in Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia and South Africa. Interest in the wind power markets in Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco was also growing." and "one major challenge to market expansion was that the power sector in many African countries was still regulated by monopoly control".
KENYA TURNS TO GREEN ENERGY ALTERNATIVES
Read more here, at Engineering News.
MIN WATER & ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS TO ATTEND POST COPENHAGEN MEETING ON 24 JANUARY 2010
Participants of the meeting, the "The so-called Basic (Brazil, South Africa, India, and China) countries" are to 'fill in the blanks' of the Copenhagen Accord (to be done by 31 January 2010). Read more here, on Engineering News.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Solar Water Heater Subsidy Doubles as at 11 January 2010!
This Engineering News article informs us that: "State-owned power utility Eskom is confident that an effective doubling of the subsidy levels for its solar water heater (SWH) rebate programme, coupled with the anticipated increases in electricity prices over the next three years, would lead to a bigger uptake of this technology by the South African public."
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Mining Company Conducting Feasibility Study for 100-MW wind farm (West Coast of SA)
Exxaro seems to be taking a keen interest in renewable energy for their operations. Read more here, on Engineering News.
Detroit Auto Show's Two main Themes: Smaller & Greener
Read more here, on Engineering News. The article highlights the unveiling of some 'green' cars.
Monday, January 11, 2010
More about Green Jobs
SOUTH AFRICA
This Legalbrief article states that "some 114 000 green jobs could be created in two years if the government's intention to incentivise green industries is successful." Source: Business Report
MEXICO
This Renewable Energy Focus article gives an example of wind farms being planned (in Mexico) to power a cement company and retail chain. It states that "The Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) has approved US$102 million in partial financing for two wind facilities in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, which will establish a critical mass of renewable energy in the country and generate jobs in low-income rural communities."
This Legalbrief article states that "some 114 000 green jobs could be created in two years if the government's intention to incentivise green industries is successful." Source: Business Report
MEXICO
This Renewable Energy Focus article gives an example of wind farms being planned (in Mexico) to power a cement company and retail chain. It states that "The Inter-American Development Bank (IADB) has approved US$102 million in partial financing for two wind facilities in the Mexican state of Oaxaca, which will establish a critical mass of renewable energy in the country and generate jobs in low-income rural communities."
Recycling Tyres to Create 'Green Energy'
Check out this Connectmidmissouri article about a farmer (Harvey Buhr) who recycles tyres and turns them into fuel without emitting any pollutants into the environment! The article claims that "Buhr has machines in his backyard that can recycle a whole cart of tires at a time. Once they go in, Buhr uses heat to extract the oil and other energy sources inside of them."...""For every 1,000 pounds of tires that we process, we can generate 51 gallons of diesel fuel." We would be interested to find out how he accomplishes this and what is done with the trapped pollutants afterwards.
NERSA Public Hearings - Eskom Tariff Increases
The public hearings taking place across South Africa regarding Eskom's proposed tariff increases started yesterday and will conclude on 21 January 2009. This Engineering News article informs us that the DA has called for the hearings to be extended because the hearings "were not procedurally sound as the public had not been granted sufficient notice for comment on the amended application."
Sunday, January 10, 2010
International Year of Biodiversity
Biodiversity is the variation of life forms within a given ecosystem, biome, or for the entire Earth. 2010 is International Year of Biodiversity. This BBC News article reminds us all about the rapid biodiversity loss that is taking place around the globe: "...human expansion is wiping out species at about 1,000 times the "natural" or "background" rate, and that "business as usual is not an option".
Thursday, January 7, 2010
North Sea Supergrid Planned
Read more here on Renewable Energy Focus. The article states: "More than 100GW of offshore wind projects are under development in Europe, around 10% of the EU's electricity demand, and equivalent to about 100 large coal-fired plants. In the UK alone, The Crown Estate will shortly announce the consortia chosen to develop up to 20GW of wind power from offshore wind zones in the North Sea."
$9 Billion Solar Energy Project Planned for Morroco (North Africa)
This Engineering News article informs us that Morocco ("the poorest of the European Union's Southern neighbours")..."wants to play a leading role in a European plan to draw solar power from the Sahara." "Morocco's solar plan involves building five stations which will account for 38 percent of its installed power generation by 2020."
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
New Video About Cap & Trade by the makers of 'The Story of Stuff'
No More Light Bulbs?!
I recently came across this article which claims that scientists have invented a light emitting (LED) chemical coating which can be painted on walls to replace the use of light bulbs in buildings/homes! Find out more here. Only thing is how ecologically sound is this stuff? If you know more about this, let us know!
Monday, January 4, 2010
Eskom, Government, See the Light!
This Urban Sprout article is an update of an earlier Urban Sprout article on the subject of SA's electricity supply situation. If our government continues to 'address' this issue with closed eyes, it will be to the serious detriment of the people of SA. We need to start agressively phasing out non-renewable sources of power in exchange for major energy efficiency overhauls in all sectors, introduction and supporting of independant renewable power producers, with Eskom becoming nothing more than one of the IPPs and with a national grid company to maintain/manage the national electricity grid. It all seems like a mammoth undoable task, but if government changes policies to allow for this to happen, it IS POSSIBLE. Just look at other examples around the world!
On the same subject, the DA has called for an investigation into how municipalities are implementing Eskom's tariff increases. It has been discovered that some municipalities are putting their tariffs up by the same percentage as Eskom (as opposed to just putting it up by the true amount). This results in the consumer paying EVEN MORE THAN Eskom's increase! For an explanation, see this Renewed Energy blog post.
One last thing, a recent Global Climate Network study titled "Low-Carbon Jobs in an
Inter-Connected World" has shown the job creation potential for a global 'green' revolution ("this paper identifies as many as 19.7 million2 energy-related job opportunities that could be created in member countries between now and 2020
as a result of policies to reduce carbon emissions.". It says about South Africa: "The South African government’s policy is guided by a range of long-term mitigation scenarios, the most stringent of which, inter alia suggests that around 50 per cent of South Africa’s energy would
have to come from renewable sources in 2050. Assuming this equates with a target of 15 per cent of electricity from renewables in 2020, 36,400 new direct jobs and 109,100 indirect jobs could be created. In addition, as many as 700,000 people could be employed in biofuels." View a summary of this paper here.
On the same subject, the DA has called for an investigation into how municipalities are implementing Eskom's tariff increases. It has been discovered that some municipalities are putting their tariffs up by the same percentage as Eskom (as opposed to just putting it up by the true amount). This results in the consumer paying EVEN MORE THAN Eskom's increase! For an explanation, see this Renewed Energy blog post.
One last thing, a recent Global Climate Network study titled "Low-Carbon Jobs in an
Inter-Connected World" has shown the job creation potential for a global 'green' revolution ("this paper identifies as many as 19.7 million2 energy-related job opportunities that could be created in member countries between now and 2020
as a result of policies to reduce carbon emissions.". It says about South Africa: "The South African government’s policy is guided by a range of long-term mitigation scenarios, the most stringent of which, inter alia suggests that around 50 per cent of South Africa’s energy would
have to come from renewable sources in 2050. Assuming this equates with a target of 15 per cent of electricity from renewables in 2020, 36,400 new direct jobs and 109,100 indirect jobs could be created. In addition, as many as 700,000 people could be employed in biofuels." View a summary of this paper here.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
R1.8 Billion RE Project in PE lying Idle
This Times Live article tells how "A R1.8-billion renewable energy project in Port Elizabeth - by far the country's biggest green power investment - is still waiting for government approval more than four years after the contract was signed".
Sudan Exports Ethanol
This Engineering News article informs us that Kenana, Sudan's largest sugar company has "begun exporting its first 5 million litres of ethanol to the European Union, at an initial price of around 450 euros a cubic metre". The article goes on to say that "The factory uses by-products from Sudan's sugar industry to create a renewable energy source for a country whose economy is largely dependent on crude oil output of almost 500 000 barrels per day."
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