The Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) could be giving the go-ahead for what will be one of the most greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensive coal-fired power stations, not only in South Africa, but in the world. Its GHG emissions are likely to be 60% higher than Eskom’s new Medupi and Kusile coal plants. This is apparent from the final climate change impact assessment … [Read more...]
Why government’s nuclear deal will destroy SA
Former ANC MP Andrew Feinstein (pictured, right), who resigned from parliament in protest over the bribes compatriots took from South Africa’s infamous R70bn Arms Procurement Deal, says that plundering will “seem like small change” against what’s planned from the proposed Nuclear Build programme. In our interview two months ago, Feinstein urged his countrymen to “take to the … [Read more...]
Medupi delay in Unit 6 synchronisation likely
A further delay in the first synchronisation of Unit 6 at Medupi power station is increasingly likely. This was indicated at a briefing by Eskom's Medupi project manager, Roman Crookes, and the head of capital projects, Dan Morakane. The minister of Public Enterprises and other key stakeholders were being informed of this eventuality. In September 2014, the Medupi project … [Read more...]
Painting a colourful picture of our energy future
The discussion around the future of Eskom has reached a new high with the parastatal reporting on its dire situation culminating in a R225bn shortfall. Many articles published in the past week laid out arguments as to what Eskom should do next. As a young South African I believe someone should share a youth perspective on this subject. It is interesting to read that many of … [Read more...]
Greenpeace releases renewables plan for south africa
Non-governmental organisation (NGO) Greenpeace has called on the government to make 'bold and courageous' energy choices, to ensure a cleaner energy future without any additional nuclear and coal-fired power, after construction of the Medupi power station. This would require a much more ambitious renewable-energy policy, climate campaigner Melita Steele said. Greenpeace … [Read more...]
Solar water heater campaign
Let's buy South Africa four million solar water heaters, not 40 years worth of carbon dioxide, coal pollution and climate change! As part of the 2010 Climate challenge and in partnership with Project 90 by 2030, OXFAM, 350.org and Urban Sprout, Activist is running the Solar Water Heater Campaign. South Africa is warming up three times faster than the rest of the world. While … [Read more...]
Medupi the end of a dirty line?
The World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) South Africa is less than enthusiastic about the World Bank's approval of a $3,75-billion loan, primarily for the development of a coal-fired power station in South Africa. The decision fails to adequately recognise the opportunities for renewable energy development in South Africa or to provide specifics of how the claimed public … [Read more...]
