Emphasise the 'just'in energy transition

As it strives for a greener, more sustainable future, the country must consider environmental, economic and social factors to ensure equity

- Sisanda Lupondwana

South Africa's nationwide electricity blackouts have been suspended, but the nation still faces a "risk of another energy crisis", the 2025 Energy Market Projections report notes, making the necessity of an energy transition indisputable.

But, for the transition to be fair and effective, it must be anchored in strategies that prioritise equity and inclusion. Without this foundation, inequalities and the marginalisation of vulnerable groups, such as those who rely on fossil fuel industries and infrastructure for their livelihoods, will intensify.

Through the implementation of several national frameworks and strategic plans to execute the shift, South Africa's commitment to a just transition is evident, but the real challenge is ensuring it lives up to the promise not only of energy security but also of justice.

The $475 million loan from the African Development Bank to support South Africa's green transformation confirms a reality we know all too well - the country faces seemingly endless energy problems that require urgent attention.

Examples include a poorly maintained and ageing coal-fired power station fleet; a monopolised, mismanaged energy supplier (Eskom) and dependence on a single energy commodity - coal. This dependence leads to higher susceptibility to supply disruptions and, consequently, reduced energy security.

Eskom was a primary site through which “state capture” was executed, further undermining justice in energy reliability, access and affordability.

These issues underscore the importance of prioritising a shift toward more sustainable and decentralised energy sources a vital component in addressing the energy crisis.