The role of trade unions in shaping the Just Energy Transition in South Africa: A case study of Komati Power Station

Abstract

The Just Energy Transition (JET) represents a critical shift in South Africa’s energy landscape. As such, there is a need for a socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable energy transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. This study investigated the role of trade unions in shaping the JET, through a case study of the Komati Power Station located in Mpumalanga province, South Africa. This case study explored how trade unions influence policy negotiations, and advocate for worker rights, and community benefits during the decommissioning of coal-powered plants. The study deployed a qualitative methodology to evaluate the role of trade unions in shaping the JET. The analysis revealed that trade unions serve as one of the stakeholders that advocate for job security, reskilling initiatives, and equitable social outcomes in the JET process. In-depth interviews were conducted with union representatives, power station workers, and policymakers. The study found that interests of labour representatives and those of environmentalists as well as policymakers were misaligned. Furthermore, the study revealed that effective collaboration between trade unions and responsible government policymaking entities is essential to ensure that the JET transition fosters an inclusive economic and environmental justice. Finally, the study showed that preventing potential negative socio-economic impacts on communities that are dependent on the coal economy would result in JET. These findings contribute to the broader JET discourse and demonstrate the role of labour movements in driving policy advocacy.