Eric de Villiers, Hein Prinsloo, Rozanne Dante Du Plessis & Olumida Jaiyeoba
Abstract
Assessing the feasibility of renewable energy compared to fossil fuels in South Africa is essential for fostering a healthier and safer environment while protecting natural resources. There is a noticeable disconnect between South Africa’s transnational climate commitments and the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy’s outlook on the country’s energy future. This study aims to understand the cost-effectiveness of renewable energy and how it can be successfully implemented in South Africa. Despite a global shift towards sustainable energy sources in response to climate change, urbanization, and diminishing resources, South Africa’s energy mix contains minimal renewable energy.
The primary goal of this research was to explore the viability of marketing renewable energy in South Africa to address the nation’s inconsistent energy supply. The study follows an interpretivist paradigm grounded in inductive reasoning. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with farmers in the North West Province who currently use some form of renewable energy on their farms. A qualitative research approach was applied, utilising non-probability sampling through purposive and convenience sampling methods. Data saturation was achieved after interviewing eight participants via Zoom, Teams, and telephone. The research findings were analysed using thematic analysis.
The results show that 75% of participants consistently use renewable energy sources, with all participants (100%) experiencing cost savings. Additionally, 50% of participants reported benefiting from alternative energy sources, while 87.5% believe that the employment rate would improve through a more diversified energy mix. All participants (100%) expressed satisfaction with their decision to invest in renewable energy.
Participants highlighted that this study’s contribution lies in promoting new and adaptive technologies. The findings suggest that renewable energy adoption could assist in mitigating critical issues such as load shedding and inefficiencies in South Africa’s energy supply, facilitated by data-driven decision-making and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders.
The primary goal of this research was to explore the viability of marketing renewable energy in South Africa to address the nation’s inconsistent energy supply. The study follows an interpretivist paradigm grounded in inductive reasoning. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with farmers in the North West Province who currently use some form of renewable energy on their farms. A qualitative research approach was applied, utilising non-probability sampling through purposive and convenience sampling methods. Data saturation was achieved after interviewing eight participants via Zoom, Teams, and telephone. The research findings were analysed using thematic analysis.
The results show that 75% of participants consistently use renewable energy sources, with all participants (100%) experiencing cost savings. Additionally, 50% of participants reported benefiting from alternative energy sources, while 87.5% believe that the employment rate would improve through a more diversified energy mix. All participants (100%) expressed satisfaction with their decision to invest in renewable energy.
Participants highlighted that this study’s contribution lies in promoting new and adaptive technologies. The findings suggest that renewable energy adoption could assist in mitigating critical issues such as load shedding and inefficiencies in South Africa’s energy supply, facilitated by data-driven decision-making and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders.