Gas has huge role to play in power generation

Gas is set to play a central
role not only in South
Africa’s energy mix as
it prepares to address
shortcomings on its local
grid, but that of southern
Africa.
Tina Joemat-Pettersson,
minister of energy, said
increasing the level of
access to affordable
and modern forms of
commercial energy,
particularly electricity,
was high on the political
agenda and a priority for
increasing living standards
and economic growth in
the region.
“South Africa has led the
way in terms of installed
power generation capacity
in the southern African
region, holding almost
two thirds of all power
capacity. We also have
the highest proportion
of the population with
access to grid electricity
at around 85%,” she said.
“South Africa has an
abundance of relatively
cheap coal resources, but
limited availability of
other energy resources.
We are actively seeking to
diversify our energy sources
and decrease reliance on
domestic coal reserves,
whilst reducing carbon
emissions.”
She said the country
was in talks with several
of its neighbours as efforts
intensified to develop a
seamless approach to gas in
the region. The abundance
of gas in southern Africa
was a major opportunity
that would address longterm
energy concerns."
INSERT & CAPTION
The abundance of gas
in southern Africa is a
major opportunity that
will address long-term
energy concerns.
– Tina Joemat-Pettersson