Question NW4563 to the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
02 December 2022 - NW4563
Madokwe, Ms P to ask the Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy
Whether he has thought about investing in alternative energy sources like wind, solar energy production and battery storage, especially for government buildings and educational facilities that do not use much electricity, with the intention of feeding leftover energy to the Eskom energy grid; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy is investing in energy efficiency in public buildings and infrastructure, and this covers high-energy efficient lights, heating, ventilation and cooling systems, and alternative energy such as hydrogen fuel cells. The energy efficiency measures are being implemented in various buildings of the municipalities, provincial and State-Owned Buildings with projects underway at the Lahae La SARS 9n Brooklyn, Tshwane Market, and in 45 municipalities. These energy efficiency measures are meant to reduce energy demand, thus ensure more energy is available for the productive sectors of our economy. We do also encourage all consumers of electricity to reduce consumption where possible as the first fuel before embarking on other interventions.