Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)
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Item The Political Economy of Energy Regulation in the Coal Mining Industry of Emalahleni(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-06) Selebi, Elton Jimmy; Matshabaphala, ManamelaThis study explores the perspectives on the political economy of energy regulation in the coal mining industry of Emalahleni. It seeks to discuss whether there are adequate steps within the political and economic sphere that regulates the efficient supply of electricity. The goals of this study are to ascertain the extent of regulation and policy formulation in the coal mining business in Emalahleni, South Africa; examine the reasons for decision-makers’ inaction in promoting a sustainable energy transition in Emalahleni, South Africa, and to identify political channels and platforms that can garner public and/or political support to speed the region's transition to sustainable energy. This research draws upon theoretical discussions centred on the following: The Agency Theory, Classical Political Economy, Keynesian Economics, and the Political Theory of Governance. Informed by an interpretivist paradigm, the qualitative research approach will be employed to explore the political economy of energy regulation within the study area. A non-probability sampling approach through the use of judgemental sampling was used to select the research participants, and the research method utilised interviews through the distribution of a questionnaire. A sample size of 20 comprised individuals from mining organisations in Emalahleni, Department of Mineral Resources and Energy Officials, CGS, Petroleum Agency SA, COSATU, and the Department of Trade Industry and Competition. The study noted that the political system has an impact on the energy and coal regulation markets at Emalahleni. It is recommended that an efficient energy resource policy and local governance are required to address the challenges of increased energy demand and pollution in South Africa.Item Utilisation of liquefied natural gas as energy by heavy-duty vehicles in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tlalang, KgosietsileThe transport sector in South Africa significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, with over fourteen percent of the total emissions attributed to it. The reliance on fossil fuels, particularly diesel, for vehicular road transportation exacerbates this issue. High operating costs per kilometre of diesel negatively affect the sustainability of heavy-duty vehicle operations. To address these challenges, a conceptual framework was employed to investigate various factors influencing the decision-making process to adopt LNG as an alternative fuel. Qualitative research methods were utilised to gain insights into the owners’ environmental awareness, economic considerations, and long-term sustainability goals regarding LNG adoption. The findings reveal a growing interest among heavy-duty vehicle operators in transitioning to LNG because of its environmental benefits, cost efficiency, and long-term sustainability prospects. Key stakeholders such as vehicle manufacturers, fuel providers, and logistics services are actively exploring LNG solutions to enhance fuel diversity, reduce emissions, and achieve cost efficiencies. Volvo Southern Africa, a major heavy-duty vehicle manufacturer, is leading efforts to provide environmentally friendly solutions to the industry. Similarly, some logistics services providers are undertaking pilot programmes to explore alternative energy technologies as part of their commitment to environmental sustainability. The research underscores the potential of LNG to transform the heavy-duty vehicle sector by offering a cleaner, more sustainable fuel alternative. Analysis of the estimated payback period and net present value demonstrates the economic viability of LNG heavy-duty vehicles compared to diesel counterparts. However, to realise the full potential of LNG adoption in South Africa, investment in infrastructure for importation and distribution is crucial. Additionally, concerns about potential government levies and taxes on LNG need to be addressed to encourage its utilisationItem Organisational Development Strategies to Mitigate Strike Action in Mining Companies in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tanyanyiwa, Olivia Tashinga; Matshabaphala, Manamela; Nixon, OcharaThis study delves into the challenges faced by the mining sector in South Africa due to frequent strike actions and explores various organizational development strategies that can be implemented to mitigate these occurrences. The research highlights the significance of effective communication, employee engagement, conflict resolution mechanisms, and leadership development in fostering a positive work environment and reducing the likelihood of strikes. By drawing on relevant literature, case studies, and expert opinions, the study aims to provide valuable insights for mining companies operating in South Africa to proactively address labor disputes and promote sustainable industrial relations. Through the implementation of strategic organizational development initiatives, mining companies can create a culture of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect among employees and management, ultimately leading to improved productivity and stability within the sector.Item Exploring an optimal franchise agreement model for the fuel retail industry in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Sakoane, Motshidisi Mary-AnneThis study explores the complex landscape of fuel retail franchise agreements in South Africa, highlighting the multifaceted challenges and strategic imperatives facing both franchisors and franchisees. The research underscores the importance of sustainable partnership models and adaptive business practices amidst a dynamic market environment. Key findings reveal a complex interplay of regulatory frameworks, market dynamics, and consumer trends, which significantly influence fuel retail franchise agreements. The study emphasises the need for franchise agreements that prioritise flexibility, clarity, and adaptability to ensure mutual benefit and long-term viability. The research contributes to understanding the complexities and challenges within the fuel retail industry, providing valuable guidance for stakeholders. It informs strategic decision-making and offers recommendations for improving franchise agreements, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the market. The study also highlights limitations, including the specificity of the South African context and the dynamic nature of the industry, and suggests areas for future research, such as the impact of emerging technologies and consumer preferences on franchise operations.Item Assessing the Contribution of Mining Companies to the Development of Entrepreneurs(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Mathoma, Khuthalani CurtisThis MBA thesis entitled “Assessing the Contribution of Mining Companies to the Development of Entrepreneurs” investigates the current state of entrepreneurship in South Africa, concentrating on the mining sector. The study analysed the extent to which mining companies have invested in entrepreneurship development in the areas where they operate, and the challenges that they face in promoting entrepreneurship in South Africa. A qualitative research approach and a case study design were employed, with data collected through face-to-face interviews with CSR and Enterprise and Supply Development representatives from gold and coal mining companies in Gauteng and Mpumalanga provinces, as well as beneficiaries and participants of the mining companies' CSR and Enterprise and Supplier Development programs. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The study found that entrepreneurship in South Africa faces numerous challenges, including lack of access to finance, inadequate business skills, limited market opportunities, and regulatory challenges. However, mining companies have made significant investments in entrepreneurship development in the areas where they operate through corporate social responsibility initiatives and enterprise and supplier development programs. Mining companies provide financial and non-financial support for entrepreneurship development, including funding programs, loans, mentorship, and training programs. The study also found that mining companies face several challenges in promoting entrepreneurship in South Africa, among them is the absence of a culture of entrepreneurship in mining communities, limited access to finance and resources, and regulatory challenges. Despite these challenges, iv beneficiaries, and participants of mining companies' CSR and ESD initiatives generally perceived the programs as supportive of the development of their entrepreneurial ventures. Finally, the study recommended strategies that mining companies can adopt to enhance their contribution to the development of entrepreneurship in the country. Overall, this study offers insightful information about the function of mining companies in promoting entrepreneurship and highlights the importance of their continued investment in entrepreneurship development in South Africa.Item Evaluating continuous improvement models to enhance organisational productivity in a diamond mining operation(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Chele, Motsi; Venter, RobertsEvaluating continuous improvement models to enhance organisational productivity in a diamond mining operation. The study used qualitative methods to establish an appropriate continuous improvement methodology that will assist to enhance organisational productivity. The application of continuous improvement technique to help the organisation bridge observed non-productivity was the research gap being addressed. The study identified factors that are important for organisational productivity. The study went in details to unpack organisational productivity, internal business processes and continuous improvement methodologies. This research established the model to support the business practice. The challenges observed during the research study required a systemic approach, strong leadership support, effective communication and a commitment to building a culture of continuous improvement within the organisation to deal with them and easy the workflow. The research study concluded that Theory of constraints was the relevant methodology to be adopted by the organisation to deal with lack of productivity which is currently the major challenge. It is envisaged that the nominated continuous improvement methodology would be implemented and tested to validate its capabilities to drive the organisation to an acceptable productivity level.Item Managing health and safety in South Africa’s renewable energy power plants(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Sloan, Mark JamesThe study explores the suitability of the South African Occupational Health and Safety Act Number 85 of 1993 (OHS Act) and its Regulations in their ability to appropriately support the management of people from hazards to health and safety within utility-scale renewable energy (RE) power plants in South Africa. The study includes the country’s three leading RE technologies that are in-service and connected to the national electrification grid, covering solar photovoltaic (PV), concentrated solar power (CSP) and wind power plants. Semi-structured interviews are used to collect the opinions and experiences of respondents. Each power plant’s operations are assessed from a health and safety hazard management perspective. This is followed by an evaluation of the OHS Act and its Regulations to determine their suitability in appropriately supporting the management of their fundamental intention of ensuring health and safety within solar PV, CSP and wind power plants. The study shows that these RE power plants do not present any health and safety hazards unique to these sectors under normal operating conditions. However, it does highlight several areas where the OHS Act and its Regulations are not entirely appropriate in managing people from hazards to health and safety within these RE power plants. The study identifies the importance of continually maintaining the OHS Act and its Regulations in line with technological advancements.Item Manufacturers’ Perspectives: Overcoming barriers and unlocking solutions for battery manufacturing in South Africa(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Shantikumar, Ravisha; Mathetsa, StevenThe global energy sector is transitioning towards sustainable sources. South Africa, a country heavily reliant on coal for its energy needs, faces myriad challenges compounded by persistent electricity shortages. These shortages have widespread negative economic impacts, prompting the exploration of technological solutions such as battery energy storage systems (BESS). Adoption of BESS is on the rise in South Africa. However, the country is still heavily reliant on imports for battery storage systems. This study sought to explore the barriers and solutions for the manufacture of BESS in South Africa, thus contribute to the rapid implementation of these systems in the energy sector. A qualitative approach was employed, including collecting insights from key energy sector role players, among them, representatives of global battery cell manufacturers and local battery assembly companies. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five participants from global electro-chemical battery manufacturers, two from BESS assembly companies operating in South Africa, and seven key local stakeholders such as policymakers, and representatives of research institutes, and a financial institution. Thematic analysis of these interviews revealed that, first, battery energy storage systems present substantial opportunities for South Africa. Second, localising battery manufacturing could enhance grid stability, renewable energy integration, job creation, and economic growth. The study identified key barriers to local battery manufacturing. These include market, financial, technology, and policy barriers, and a lack of skills and international partnerships specific to South Africa. To address these barriers, the study suggests fostering strong partnerships between government and battery manufacturers, sound policy development and implementation, manufacturing incentives, tariff reforms, and regional demand validation. Key considerations for battery manufacturers entering new markets like South Africa include market entry challenges, cost competitiveness, intellectual property protection, infrastructure improvements, access to raw materials, and government support. The study revealed that government leadership is crucial for developing the ii battery manufacturing industry in South Africa. Stimulating domestic demand for electric vehicles, developing mineral refining capabilities, and fostering government-industry partnerships are recommended to capitalise on market potential and industry growth. These findings complement existing literature and highlight factors unique to the South African context, as perceived by stakeholders within the battery industryItem nowledge and perceptions of add- on electrical geyser efficiency technologies held by contractors in Durban(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mzobe, Snothando Nosipho; Finchilescu, GillianGlobally, energy losses take away as much as 40% of the primary energy during distribution. Recovering this lost energy by employing more energy efficient practices can make a significant difference to the available energy. In South Africa, the residential sector makes up approximately 17% - 35% of electricity demand during peak demand periods, primarily due to the large usage of household electric water heaters commonly known as geysers. Plumbing and electrical contractors who install and maintain electrical geysers are at a strategic position to act as intermediaries to influence households towards the adoption of more energy efficient practices. This paper, therefore, investigates the extent of knowledge and perceptions held by these contractors regarding the various add-on technologies that can be used to make geysers more energy efficient. A non-experimental, quantitative research approach using questionnaires was used to, firstly, evaluate the factors that would influence the intention of contractors working in the Durban area to take up the aforementioned intermediary role. Secondly, this research sought to assess the extent of the knowledge held by contractors in the formal versus the informal sectors. Lastly, the research sought to evaluate the relationship between the contractors’ knowledge of the various add-on technologies that can be used to make geysers more energy efficient and intention to take up an intermediary role to influence households towards the adoption of more energy efficient practices. The results showed a positive correlation between social norms as well as perceived behavioural control with intention, while a correlation between personal norms as well as attitude with intention was not observed. It was also found that there is no difference in the levels of knowledge held by contractors in the formal and informal sectors, while knowledge was found to have a positive influence on intention. It was recommended that in order to improve energy efficiency knowledge among contractors, the government ought to consider regulatory mechanisms iii to encourage formal training and improve the quality of vocational education. To aid in this endeavour, government should also partner with businesses and industry-specific professional bodies. Lastly, government should implement quality feedback mechanisms to monitor the quality of work performed by contractorsItem Turning Points for Green Hydrogen in Energy Storage: Insights from Techno-Economic Analysis and Transition Theory(2024) Manyere, AllenSolar and wind energy offer the opportunity to decarbonise energy generation. How- ever, these energy sources are intermittent, leading to a mismatch between energy availability and demand and creating the need for energy storage. Green hydrogen could be the solution to this imperative; however, it is presently only available in small quantities and is expensive relative to conventional energy technologies based on coal and gas. The difference in cost raises the important question of what needs to be im- plemented or developed so that green hydrogen can become a viable technological solution for accommodating renewable energy intermittency. This research considered the question using a sequential mixed methods approach. In the first quantitative phase, standard techno-economic analysis was used to calcu- late the levelised cost of storage (LCOS) and the necessary turning points at which green hydrogen could be widely deployed as a storage solution. The LCOS is esti- mated to be $0.228/kWh which is still fairly higher than the literature value of $0.13/kWh for lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries and $0.11/kWh for pumped hydro storage. Lazard's 2024 analysis gives the LCOS for green hydrogen to be around the range $0.20 to $0.40 per kWh. In the second qualitative phase, the results of this analysis were calibrated against the perspectives of industry personnel with at least 5 years’ experience in the sector. The respondents noted the high differential between the LCOS for green hydrogen and alternative energy storage technologies such as Li-ion batteries. Their view was that significant intervention would be required at least initially with support mostly from the government in cost reduction and attract investors. Approaches such as support for the establishment of energy infrastructure, tax incentives and penalties for carbon emissions were mentioned