Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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Perceptions on the adoption or use of waste to energy (WtE) technologies among waste managers in Gauteng
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mokgolobotho, Ingrid Konkong; Ngubevana, Lwazi
The Gauteng Province, increase in population growth, urbanisation, industrialisation and economic activity has resulted in increased amounts of generated municipal solid waste (MSW). There are concerns about landfill airspace depletion, energy poverty, environmental concerns that create greenhouse gases, air pollution and water contamination. The province also requires electricity to keep its economic activity functional, while providing its citizens with electricity. The research is a qualitative study, with the purpose of understanding how waste managers in the waste industry perceive the adoption or use of waste to energy (WtE) technologies in Gauteng. Semi-qualitative interviews were held, face-to-face and on Microsoft Teams. The sample chosen were waste managers who were knowledgeable on the research topic. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data from the semi-qualitative interviews. Data triangulation was used to establish the credibility/validity of the interview findings. The findings in the study from the semi-qualitative interviews and literature review were aligned with regards to the role waste managers’ play in procuring waste to energy technologies as well as the benefits on the uptake of WtE technologies, which are improved waste management practices, less environmental challenges and the introduction of new revenue streams. Waste managers are also viewed as researchers, collaborators and educators. The study found that some of the factors that influence the perceived ease of use as well as perceived usefulness of WtE technologies include the feasibility and affordability of these technologies, access to finance, the availability of technical, training and skills transfer, potential employment opportunities and the need to diversify the energy supply iii The challenges observed by the participants were the lack of stakeholder engagement and sufficient education, lack of adequate legislature and poor governance as well as lack of access to capital. The enablers were noted as equipment tax returns, introduce landfill tax, high landfill entry gates, energy sales, carbon credits as well as educating and involving all waste generators and recyclers. To attract investors, participants noted that there should be transparency and simplified contracts, having relevant collaborations, the need for grants and assurance on return on investment
The Just Energy Transition Framework as a solution to resolve load shedding in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Mondalamo, Sibongile Greetar; Hildebrandt, Diane; Tabane, Lehlohonolo; Young, Bruce
This study examines the Just Energy Transition (JET) Framework as a response to South Africa's persistent load-shedding crisis. Due to aging infrastructure and limited generation capacity, the need to decarbonize and ongoing power cuts necessitate a shift towards renewable energy. Launched in 2022, the JET Framework aims to facilitate a transition from coal and fossil fuels. It seeks collaboration with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to achieve this goal, with initial funding of USD 8.5 billion secured through concessional loans. While initial cost estimates amount to $98 billion, historical trends suggest potential price increases as the project progresses. The research holds significance in light of South Africa's current challenge of reconciling its energy demands with environmental sustainability and social equity. A structured study can facilitate identifying and assessing feasible solutions for an equitable energy transition. A comparative research design analysed secondary data from 20 documents associated with countries aligned with the Paris Agreement. The data was sampled using non-random selection, collected through desktop research, and analysed using the document analysis technique. The study results suggest the JET Framework's potential to address load shedding, is contingent upon sufficient funding, skilled labour, effective management, a political will, and policy certainty. However, challenges remain, including resistance to coal dependence reduction, the socio-economic impact of closing coal plants, and implementation bottlenecks within the National Energy Crisis Committee (NECOM) initiatives. In conclusion, South Africa faces ongoing challenges in achieving energy security and decarbonization goals. Addressing these obstacles and fostering a cohesive energy policy based on scientific and economic analysis is crucial for a successful energy transition. The Energy Action Plan's progress in sourcing 6000 MW additional capacity to meet electricity demand demonstrates the potential of private sector involvement.
The effects of renewable energy integration on profitability & employment- a case of South African mines
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Sikoe, Oratile; Kutela, Dambala
The mining industry has been seen as one of the most energy-intensive industries in the world. That is also responsible for being a source of critical raw materials for other sectors in a country, such as manufacturing, construction, transportation, and energy sectors. In the past years we have observed an increase in mining companies adopting renewable energy in order to introduce cleaner energy sources into their mining operations. However, the economic effects of renewable energy source adoption are understudied in South Africa. This research is set out to examine and understand the effects of renewable energy integration into the mining industry on profitability and employment, with the use of the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Stationarity (ARDL) model. Our results revealed that there is a positive long-run relationship between renewable energy integration, employment, and mining profitability in the South African mining industry, including in the short-run. More specifically, the results show that the adoption of renewable energy sources bolsters both profitability and employment in the mining industry of South Africa such that a unit integration of renewable energy will most likely result in a respective percent increase in employment and mining profitability. Our research is the first of its kind in providing this evidence compared to related literature which is not industry specific. Overall, our findings underscore the importance of the transition by industries to renewable energy to simultaneously promote economic growth and ameliorate environmental quality in the context of developing countries where extractive industries pervade.
Investigating the role of the host community with regards to public participation when establishing a new mine in Lehurutshe, South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Nyarela, Mpho Nyiko; Cairns, Murray
This qualitative study delves into the critical role of the host community in the public participation process concerning the establishment of a new mine. The research examines the dynamics between the mining company and the community within the context of engagement protocols and regulatory requirements for public involvement. Using semi-structured interviews and document analysis, this study explores the perceptions, experiences, and expectations of the host community in relation to the mining company's public participation initiatives. A total number of ten participants were interviewed. Results from the study highlight significant gaps and shortcomings in the mining company's efforts to involve the host community. Responses per question were collated according to stakeholders who took part in the process to assess legitimacy, trust, and decision-making processes. The findings indicate a lack of transparency and legitimacy due to ineffective communication, and minimal efforts to incorporate community concerns and inputs into the decision-making procedures. Consequently, the absence of meaningful engagement has led to heightened tensions, mistrust, and a sense of disenfranchisement among community members. This study underscores the importance of legitimacy, trust, and inclusive public participation in the early stages of project development, emphasizing the need for mining companies to adhere to regulatory requirements and ethical practices in engaging with the host community. The findings suggest a re-evaluation of the approach to community engagement in the mining sector, advocating for proactive measures that prioritize mutual dialogue, respect for community perspectives, and the integration of local knowledge in decision-making processes. In conclusion, the research underscores the pivotal role of the host community in the establishment of a new mine and calls for a fundamental shift towards more robust, legitimate, and inclusive practices that genuinely incorporate community voices in shaping the trajectory of mining projects.
The Societal Perspective of Postgraduate students at the Wits Business School towards the Just Energy Transition in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Milanzi, Maria-Salome Gaudence
The purpose of this research is to explore postgraduate students; understanding of the Just Energy Transition (JET) in South Africa in order to uncover key areas of consideration from society’s point of view and their suggestions for implementation. The qualitative study followed an interpretive approach, interviewing twenty-one (21) postgraduate students at Wits Business School. The data was analysed through coding, from which themes were derived. The qualitative study identified concerns about the social impact of the transition, especially on vulnerable groups like the poor and workers in the coal industry. The findings highlight the need for strategies that address the impact on these groups, while also considering crucial factors like poor governance, unemployment, and electricity affordability. A phased approach with an initial focus on cleaner coal technologies and strong stakeholder engagement is recommended. The study also suggests recommendations for both the government and individuals. The government should rebuild trust, invest in cleaner energy sources while utilizing existing resources responsibly, and promote job creation through localization. Individuals are encouraged to educate themselves about the JET and its benefits. Ultimately, the research emphasizes the importance of socially just and inclusive approaches to ensure a successful and sustainable energy transition in South Africa.
Dynamic spillovers between clean energy stocks and fossil fuels: The role of climate policy uncertainty and geopolitical risk
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg Date of Issue *, 2024) Mubaiwa, Darren Tinotenda; Fasanya, Ismail O.
Clean energy stocks have emerged as a means for environmentally conscious investors to support and foster the growth of companies that are involved in the green energy sector. However, given the entrenched place that non-green energy still holds, investors must contend with the reality that these clean energy stocks may be connected to fossil fuels. Therefore, the study applies the TVP-VAR model to analyze the volatility spillovers among these markets. Our empirical analyses demonstrate that there is strong connectedness between clean energy stocks and fossil fuels. Notwithstanding, we observe that the spillovers among fossil fuels (crude oil, diesel, jet fuel etc.) are stronger than the intermarket spillovers between these energy commodities and the clean energy stock market. We then proceed to examine the effect of climate policy uncertainty and geopolitical risk on these spillovers. Using the causality-in- quantiles technique of Balcilar et al. (2016), we find that both climate policy uncertainty and geopolitical risk have a formidable impact on clean energy stock and fossil fuel intermarket spillovers. Moreover, using the Quantile-on-Quantile regression approach of Sim and Zhou (2015), we find that climate policy uncertainty and geopolitical risk have heterogeneous effects across the distribution of the clean energy stock and fossil fuel spillover nexus. These findings constitute important information for investors and policymakers.
The Political Economy of Energy Regulation in the Coal Mining Industry of Emalahleni
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023-06) Selebi, Elton Jimmy; Matshabaphala, Manamela
This 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.
Utilisation of liquefied natural gas as energy by heavy-duty vehicles in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Tlalang, Kgosietsile
The 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 utilisation
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, Ochara
This 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.
Exploring an optimal franchise agreement model for the fuel retail industry in South Africa
(University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Sakoane, Motshidisi Mary-Anne
This 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.

Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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