To explore the factors affecting the feasibility of renewable energy in South Africa

Abstract

Global climate change is a phenomenon that is currently being experienced all over the world. There is a need for each and every individual to actively make changes in their lives, in how they do things in order to help mitigate global climate change. Carbon dioxide emissions are one of the highest contributors to global climate change. South Africa produces the majority of its electricity through the burning of coal, with the majority of the power stations in the country being coal power stations. It is through the carbon dioxide emissions from these coal power stations that South Africa is adversely impacting the atmosphere by being a contributor to the global climate change. In order to help mitigate climate change, there needs to be a shift from coal power stations, to renewable energy, which is a much cleaner source of producing electricity. The study adopted an inductive, qualitative approach which will aid in understanding the different views held by interviewees on renewable energy. In this this study, semistructured interviews were conducted with thirteen participants, who were able to provide insight into the factors that affect the feasibility of renewable energy in South Africa.