Coal remains an important resource for South Africa

I recently delivered a presentation at the FFF Carbon Middelburg Coal Conference on the topic, Coal and Industrialisation in South Africa. I began by reflecting on how key developments that transformed South African society and industrialised the country’s economy are all linked to coal. Even today, vital industries in SA still depend on coal to meet their energy needs. About 57% of energy in the iron and steel sector comes from coal, while non-ferrous metals consume 59% and mining 27%.

In the absence of a viable option to support baseload, countries will always turn to coal and other fossil fuels to create sufficient baseload. For instance, China is using a more balanced approach by building the highest number of coal power stations globally, while rapidly investing in renewables. Achieving energy security requires that we include all reliable resources as part of the energy mix.

Coal has the potential to support South Africa’s re-industrialisation and revive critical sectors like steel. To reclaim its competitiveness and drive industrial growth, SA must use all available and affordable resources. Abundant and affordable coal is a crucial part of this.

View the presentation below: