Energy and development : an assessment of South Africa’s progress towards achieving SDG 7

Abstract

Electricity is the most important source of energy for most households and businesses in South Africa. This dissertation explores the contribution of electricity to sustainable development in South Africa by assessing the extent to which the country is achieving the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 - "Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all." SDG 7 serves as a proxy (Framework) for assessing progress in achieving the type of energy supply needed for sustainable development. This research takes into consideration the tension between the cost-reflective tariffs of Eskom and affordability for the customer, as well as the social tensions and environmental factors involved in the transition to an energy-efficient low-carbon economy. My findings are that by 2030, South Africa: will provide access to electricity for all citizens although it will not be affordable for many and the quality of access is not ensured. There will be a substantial increase in the share of renewable energy in total energy generation and there is potential to improve in energy efficiency. I find that the development finance pledge by international partners for the just transition provides an opportunity for South Africa to expand infrastructure, upgrade technology, if it can be implemented, for supplying modern and sustainable energy services for all in a just and equitable manner. Addressing these broad matters can assist in providing possible solutions to achieving sustainable development and further contribute to the understanding of the complexities surrounding access, affordability and reliability of electricity, upscaling renewable energy and practising energy efficiency.