Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management (ETDs)

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Subject: search.filters.subject.Political Economy

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    The Political Economy of Energy Regulation in the Coal Mining Industry of Emalahleni
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2022) Selebi, Elton J; Matshabaphala, M.
    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
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    The Political Economy of the Renewable Electrical Energy Sector Within the Context of South Africa’s Energy Transition
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2023) Waxa, Zizipho; Ngubevana, Lwazi
    This research project explored the political economy of the renewable electrical energy sector within the context of South Africa’s energy transition, focusing on the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP). The objective of this research project was to provide policy recommendations that would address the challenges within the renewable electrical energy sector and promote a just electrical energy transition. Key findings in this research indicate that the political economy of the renewable electrical energy sector is shaped by the socio-political legacies of the Apartheid regime, namely, the Minerals-Energy Complex (MEC). With the MEC being underpinned by a set of relationships that prioritise coal-fired electricity- the renewable electrical energy sector is seemingly being suppressed to maintain the status quo thus limiting a just electrical energy transition. Moreover, the findings demonstrate the influential role of the MEC in the stalling of a just electrical energy transition. Additionally, the qualitative in-depth interviews revealed rich insights that shed light on the underlying mechanisms and contextual factors shaping the political economy of South Africa’s renewable electrical energy sector. The implications of these findings are twofold. Firstly, they contribute to the theoretical understanding of the political economy of South Africa’s renewable electrical energy sector by confirming and expanding upon existing knowledge in the field. Secondly, they have practical implications for policymakers seeking to improve policy effectiveness and usher in a just electrical energy transition by addressing the identified factors
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    The Political Economy of the Renewable Electrical Energy Sector Within the Context of South Africa’s Energy Transition
    (2023) Waxa, Zizipho Khayakazi; Ngubevana, Lwazi
    This research project explored the political economy of the renewable electrical energy sector within the context of South Africa’s energy transition, focusing on the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP). The objective of this research project was to provide policy recommendations that would address the challenges within the renewable electrical energy sector and promote a just electrical energy transition. Key findings in this research indicate that the political economy of the renewable electrical energy sector is shaped by the socio political legacies of the Apartheid regime, namely, the Minerals-Energy Complex (MEC). With the MEC being underpinned by a set of relationships that prioritise coal-fired electricity- the renewable electrical energy sector is seemingly being suppressed to maintain the status quo thus limiting a just electrical energy transition. Moreover, the findings demonstrate the influential role of the MEC in the stalling of a just electrical energy transition. Additionally, the qualitative in-depth interviews revealed rich insights that shed light on the underlying mechanisms and contextual factors shaping the political economy of South Africa’s renewable electrical energy sector. The implications of these findings are twofold. Firstly, they contribute to the theoretical understanding of the political economy of South Africa’s renewable electrical energy sector by confirming and expanding upon existing knowledge in the field. Secondly, they have practical implications for policymakers seeking to improve policy effectiveness and usher in a just electrical energy transition by addressing the identified factors.