AFRICAN ENERGY 17
Fusion Energy talks electricity in SA
The topic of electricity in South Africa is likely to focus on the increasing dent it is making in the monthly budget , and the seemingly endless controversy surrounding Eskom .
By
Fusion Energy
Another discussion point would be the hugely negative environmental and health effects of electricity produced from large coal-fired power stations . At the end of the day , such conversations are inevitably negative and are likely to end with a depressing shake of the head .
Some people may know something about the government ’ s renewable energy programme . Better-informed individuals might know about the frustrated list of independent power producers still waiting for the latest round of procurement contracts to be signed . Most will say that , anyway , these new renewable technologies are more expensive than coal power , and so either way the consumer is going to be hit . People need electricity as a key enabler for modern-day life . They are resigned to paying more for less and indirectly supporting a more polluting future for South Africa and the world .
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According to Fusion Energy , a new energy future is coming that will benefit consumers .
The reality is that while fossil fuel produced electricity costs are increasing , renewables and grid security technology costs are dropping — and this divergence is becoming an unstoppable force . This means that a new energy future is coming , in which consumers can enjoy lower costs , minimal environmental impacts , and a world of opportunity to create jobs and economic empowerment through good business sense and the inherent innovation of all South Africans .
Frankly , when it comes to the subject of power , most South Africans feel powerless . This is because , historically , the energy sector has evolved to typically comprise massive companies , which dominate the industry — either in the form of multinational companies such as the large fossil fuel businesses ( oil , gas , and coal companies ), or large national utilities in the case of the power sector ( for example Eskom ).
The real frustration for South Africans stems from the thought that there is no alternative . However , that ’ s no longer true .
Active companies in the renewable energy sector are developing revolutionary business models that are introducing and driving numerous changes to the way we use , buy , and sell electricity . “ We believe in good energy invested in good things ,” said Wendy Green , Fusion Energy ’ s CEO . PA
Frankly , when it comes to the subject of power , most South Africans feel powerless . www . plumbingafrica . co . za January 2018 Volume 23 I Number 11