Generating power: exploring local energy resource options with rural communities in South Africa

Background

Energy supply issues are highly politicised in South Africa and national government and municipalities are under pressure from both investors and the public. Government energy interventions promote ‘self-reliance' but lack meaningful community involvement while people often see energy provision as a free basic right.

Purpose

To promote the feasibility of community-driven renewable energy service delivery for lighting cooking and space heating in rural off-grid South African communities and catalyse long-term support from municipalities and investors.

Implementor

International Institute for Environment and Development