Ramokgopa: South Africa needs to double energy efficiency by 2030

Minister of Electricity Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has made an emphatic call for accelerated investment in energy efficiency, warning that the country’s developmental future hinges on embracing affordable, sustainable energy systems.

Speaking at a high-level energy dialogue supported by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) on Wednesday, Ramokgopa positioned South Africa as a key player in the global push to double energy efficiency by 2030.

“Doubling energy efficiency by 2030 is not merely a target; it is a clarion call, a commitment we must honour, individually and collectively,” he said.

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Energy poverty

The minister stressed that access to affordable, reliable energy is not only essential for growth, but vital to lifting millions out of poverty.

“As a country that has grappled with energy access challenges, we understand that improving efficiency and ensuring affordability is central to securing a reliable energy supply and advancing economic growth,” Ramokgopa told delegates.

He further pointed to several initiatives that have already yielded results, including energy-efficient tax incentives, performance certification for buildings, and labelling programmes for appliances.

According to the minister, in 2019, energy savings had exceeded 6 000 GWh, the equivalent of avoiding several stages of load shedding.

“Our industry and mining sectors, which consume around 35% of total final energy, achieved a 4.6% energy efficiency improvement by 2020,” he said.

Yet despite these gains, he acknowledged that more investment is urgently required to meet rising energy demands and the country’s climate commitments.

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Energy transition must include jobs and skills.

Ramokgopa warned against an energy transition that leaves communities behind.

He said youth inclusion, job creation, and training in energy technology must remain integral to energy planning.

“Energy efficiency must serve as both a tool for growth and a vehicle for social and economic inclusion,” he said, emphasising the need for “robust policy implementation and innovative financial mechanisms.”

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G20 Presidency — a chance to lead

With South Africa taking the reins of the G20, the country aims to leverage this platform to drive global cooperation and attract financing for green energy projects.

Ramokgopa underscored that the upcoming term will prioritise energy security, affordability, and access.

“We remain eager to share our experiences, learn from others, and collectively advance our shared global goals,” he said.

Ramokgopa concluded his address by reiterating that energy efficiency should no longer be viewed as a “nice to have”, but rather as the first and most cost-effective step in achieving a just energy transition.

“Energy efficiency, aptly described as the ‘first fuel’, is not simply a cost-saving mechanism. It is a catalyst for productivity, competitiveness, and sustainable development,” he said.

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