By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider
On Friday 13 June, the Presidential Climate Commission (PCC) convened for its 18th quarterly meeting to review their 6-month working programme as it solidifies its five-year establishment. The meeting covered the Komati Power Station Redevelopment Initiative, the implementation of the Just Energy Transition Investment Plan, the 2020-2025 National Determined Contribution (NDCs), preparations for UNFCCC COP30, and the upcoming G20 summit that will be hosted in South Africa later this year.
The conversation around the Komati Power Station Redevelopment Initiative has highlighted that it has been shut down and currently undergoing decommissioning and repurposing in line with the Just Transition Framework. In the last 18 months the power station has faced a number of constraints as the report highlights a need for commissioning in order to continue coordinating a multidisciplinary mechanism. The Commission has also noted progress with the implementation of local development pilot projects which include, worker reskilling, business support, as well as SMME development and the provision of social services which were held back due to the station being closed. PCC Executive Director Ms Dorah Modise released a statement saying “To this end we call on donors, the private sector and primarily government to take up their political, corporate and moral responsibility, and ramp up their investments, grants and social services in ensuring that the needs of those affected by the decommissioning of power station are addressed.”
In terms of investment opportunities of the Just Energy Transition, the PCC had welcomed an update from Dr Kgosientso Ramakgopa who serves as the Minister of Energy and Electricity, who gave updates in regards to interventions aimed at stabilizing the current energy infrastructure, ensuring security of supply and diversifying our energy mix. The PCC has also noted that South Africa has attracted $12.8 billion in international pledges with various levels of flows already dispersed, despite these pledges more was needed in regards to funding. “Despite these commitments, we need to emphasize that we are far from filling the basket, as South Africa’s full transition will require an estimated R1.5 trillion which equates to ($100 billion) which should address both our mitigating and adaptation in the short to medium term” said Ms Dorah Modise.
The PCC has expressed its appreciation for the government’s commitment to Just Energy Transition which is underscored by energy security, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability. The Commission have further noted that there is significant progress in the investment implementation plan which aims to boost sectors such as the green hydrogen innovation project, reforming the electricity sector, excelling the New Energy Vehicles (NEV) industry and advancements in skill development. There is a big emphasis that multi-stakeholder collaboration is vital in terms of creating further progress for these initiatives.