Energy Profile: South Africa

This energy profile report provides an analysis of South Africa’s energy production, consumption, and resource potential based on data through 2015. It highlights the country’s overwhelming dependence on coal, which accounted for approximately 92.7% of electricity generation, alongside early-stage but increasing investment in renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, hydroelectric power, and biogas. The document details key energy statistics, trends in fossil fuel and renewable energy use, and the infrastructure supporting energy access, noting stark disparities between urban (96.6%) and rural (66.9%) populations. It outlines the institutional and regulatory frameworks governing the sector, including the roles of the Department of Energy, NERSA, and national legislation. South Africa’s commitments to climate change mitigation—such as the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme—are also emphasized. The report addresses energy efficiency goals, with a 12% target by 2015, and highlights technological developments like coal liquefaction and underground coal gasification.