ID: SA needs renewable energy
2008-01-22 20:17
Johannesburg - South Africa can use its current energy crisis to "kick start" a renewable energy industry, the Independent Democrats (ID) said on Tuesday.
ID spokesperson for Energy, Lance Greyling, said the renewable energy industry would only be possible if the government intervened.
"Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica must immediately introduce feed-in tariffs for renewable energy producers, which would fix a premium price for various generation technologies.
"This would have the effect of providing guaranteed prices for renewable energy producers, thereby creating the certainty that investors need to bring these technologies on line," Greyling said.
He said the Sonjica should also set far bolder targets for renewable energy and put these out to government tender.
He said the ID believed that at the very least, a target of 1 000 MW should be set for wind generation, as various studies have shown that South Africa's potential for wind energy is in excess of 3 000 MW.
"In addition, Eskom must now finally place firm orders for solar water heaters so as to allow the local industry to build up capacity to meet these orders," said Greyling.
He called on government to embark on a massive energy efficiency drive and provide subsidies for businesses and households to introduce energy efficiency measures.
- SAPA