JET conference at Gallagher Convention Centre clarifies the context surrounding local government electricity distribution

As the country faces significant challenges related to energy security, local governments are charged with the responsibility of delivering reliable and affordable electricity to their communities.

Comfort Makhanya

4 hours ago

President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the attendees.

Municipalities are positioned to play an essential and pivotal role in facilitating a successful energy transition within South Africa.

Their involvement is crucial not only for improving the nation’s energy security but also for ensuring that the country boasts a sufficient supply of reliable and affordable electricity for all its citizens.

The energy transition at the municipal level is a substantial undertaking that requires a nuanced understanding of the various complexities that local governments face.

In recognition of the importance of these issues, a two-day Municipal Just Energy Transition (JET) conference was convened at Gallagher Convention Centre on August 26–27.

This event saw the participation of mayors, technical managers, and municipal managers from provinces across the nation.

The conference served as an important platform for dialogue and collaboration among key stakeholders. Notably, the President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, attended the conference on August 26 where he delivered a keynote address during the opening ceremony.

Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs Velenkosini Hlabisa, President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa, and Minister of Enegy and Electricity Dr Kgosientso Ramokgopa arrive at Gallagher Convention Centre for the JET conference. Photos: The Presidency on X

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In his remarks, Ramaphosa articulated that rapid, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth remains a central priority for the Government of National Unity.

He emphasised the importance of low-carbon, climate-resilient development as a fundamental component in achieving this inclusive growth.

“There are great prospects ahead if the country takes advantage of the global energy transition to support economic growth, development, and employment creation,” he stated.

The primary objective of the JET conference is to convene pivotal stakeholders within the municipal landscape. This is aimed at charting a clear path forward for the effective implementation of the JET Municipal Portfolio, which is outlined in the broader JET Implementation Plan (JET IP).

The conference also sought to clarify the context surrounding local government electricity distribution while prominently showcasing the key features of the JET IP alongside its Municipal JET Portfolio.

Ramaphosa noted that the regulatory changes implemented in 2021, which aimed to raise the licensing threshold for generation projects, have paved the way for a robust pipeline consisting of over 130 confirmed projects.

Through the Integrated National Electrification Programme grant, municipalities have been entrusted with the essential responsibility of tackling the electrification backlog.

“South African households, like many around the world, are battling with the rising cost of living, including the cost of energy,” added Ramaphosa, emphasising the intimate connection between the energy transition and social equity.

“We must therefore ensure that the energy transition does not contribute to energy poverty. It must not deepen inequality. The free basic electricity subsidy for indigent households is one of the most important policies we have implemented to tackle poverty since the advent of democracy.”

Alongside Ramaphosa, other notable speakers included the Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientso Ramokgopa, the Minister of Co-operative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Velenkosini Hlabisa, and the president of the South African Local Government Association, Bheki Stofile.