Exploring the socio-economic impacts of South Africa’s just energy transition (JET): a case study of coal-dependent communities in Mpumalanga

Abstract

The closure of collieries and coal-fired power plants has resulted in social disturbance, reduced employment figures and economic downturns. The challenge in this study focused on a just energy transition in the coal mining sector in South Africa and the reality of implementing such change in communities that rely on coal mining. The focus of the study was to explore the socio-economic impacts of the JET on employment in Mpumalanga. The study has emphasised the importance of companies in the energy sector to consider implementing low-carbon mechanisms to avoid operational disruptions and other risks. The study adopted a qualitative research approach. A sample of 12 participants was selected using the purposive sampling method. Semi-structured interviews were used to collect data, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the study. The study found that the shift from coal to renewable energy resulted in significant job losses and worker displacement. This created challenges in the local coal mining communities affected by JET, such as increased poverty, unemployment, social unrest and a declining regional economy. The study also found that the JET impacts the livelihoods and living standards of coal workers and their families in Mpumalanga. The study concluded that as coal mines and power plants face closure, households are deprived of their primary source of income, resulting in decreased financial capacity to look after their basic needs. The study found that inadequate communication, a lack of awareness and education and poor stakeholder engagement are the significant challenges, resulting in resistance and distrust among the impacted communities. The findings revealed that collaboration among stakeholders, government, industry, labour unions and communities is evolving but still remains fragmented and inconsistent. The chapter concluded that the successful implementation of JET initiatives depends on adequate government backing, diversification, and the integration of social equity principles. The study recommended that reskilling, job creation, training, collaboration, social protection, and vigorous enforcement are vital for effective JET implementation.