Facilitating South Africa’s energy transition through capability enhancement

Context

South Africa is facing an energy crisis, resulting in economic losses, unemployment, and social disparities. Compounded by an aging coal-reliant power infrastructure, the nation needs to address challenges including energy security, economic stability, and climate resilience. Enhancing the capabilities of personnel and organisational structures within public institutions responsible for the power industry reform is central for this task.

Improving these abilities is essential for implementing the (eco-friendly) energy transition. With the appropriate expertise, leaders in South Africa can navigate complex policy landscapes and expedite reforms. Moreover, a proficient workforce ensures that initiatives align with national objectives.

Objective

The personnel and organisational capabilities of selected public institutions for implementing a socially balanced energy transition have been improved.

Approach

The project collaborates with South African partners to manage the transition to a reliable, affordable and clean energy supply through these measures:

• Organising expert talks, peer exchanges, collaborations with universities, and targeted capability enhancement in responsible authorities.
• Providing international expertise for policy-makers and utilities on the power market design and energy transition.
• Supporting the implementation of existing policies and legal provisions.
• Offering structured training at the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) and the National Transmission Company South Africa (NTCSA) on market design, regulations, and technical aspects.
• Addressing gender inequality within the power industry through strategy development, data capture, organisational development, and responsive working conditions.

Last update: March 2025