Solar might be the answer for South Africa according to the most recent report by Frost and Sullivan; however, the country has been slow to utilize its alternative energy resources.
Residents have installed 800 solar water heater systems since state-owned utility Eskom started a program a year ago in an effort to push alternative energy, said Business Report.
The initiative, which includes a R4,200 rebate, has cost Eskom R3 million so far, the Johannesburg-based newspaper reported, citing Andrew Etzinger, general manager of investment strategy.
South Africa could save R50 billion and reduce electricity demand by half a power plant if four million homes were fitted with solar heaters, the newspaper said.
Meanwhile, the eThekwini municipality has established a new energy office to increase awareness on the importance of saving electricity and promoting energy efficiency.
Opened on Tuesday, the office will establish the municipality as a leading local authority in promoting and implementing energy management to achieve a sustainable energy future for businesses and residents of the area.
The current focus of the energy office is to set up a framework on using solar energy for the residents of Durban.