The Political Economy of the Renewable Electrical Energy Sector Within the Context of South Africa’s Energy Transition

Abstract

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