As South Africa grapples with severe energy shortages, China’s burgeoning solar industry might hold the key to bridging the power gap. While some Western nations express concerns over China’s so-called “overcapacity” in solar panel production, for countries like South Africa, this surplus could be a much-needed solution.
China’s Solar “Overcapacity”: A Boon for Developing Nations
Europe and the United States have recently raised alarms about China’s expansive solar panel manufacturing, labeling it a “threat” to the global market. However, this perspective overlooks the potential benefits for energy-starved nations. China’s abundant solar production capacity presents an opportunity to address electricity shortages in developing countries, providing access to clean, renewable energy.
Insights from South African Economist Jaya Josie
On April 19, South African economist Jaya Josie published a commentary in local media, analyzing how South Africa could learn from China’s successful experiences in rural electrification and poverty alleviation. As the head of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) BRICS Research Centre, Josie specializes in infrastructure finance aimed at sustainable development.
Josie highlighted the stark reality of energy access in Africa. Approximately 600 million people across the continent lack electricity entirely. In South Africa alone, over 3.5 million households have no reliable power for basic needs like lighting, cooking, and heating. Even those connected to the grid face frequent power outages and instability. Josie himself experiences daily power cuts, and millions in rural areas go without electricity for most of the time. Despite government efforts, at the current rate of electrification, South Africa is unlikely to achieve nationwide grid access by 2030.
China-South Africa Collaboration in Renewable Energy
In a significant move towards alleviating the energy crisis, Power Construction Corporation of China (PowerChina) signed an agreement in July 2023 for the Darmragt 123-megawatt photovoltaic (PV) project with Irish developer Mainstream. This marks the first large-scale ground PV power plant project undertaken by a Chinese company in South Africa. The project is expected to supply about 300 million kilowatt-hours of clean power to the South African national grid annually, providing much-needed support to ease the local power shortage and promote economic and social development.
A Path Forward
China’s involvement in South Africa’s renewable energy sector demonstrates how international cooperation can address critical infrastructure needs. By leveraging China’s expertise and capacity in solar energy, South Africa can make significant strides toward energy security and sustainable development. This collaboration not only benefits the local population but also contributes to global efforts in combating climate change.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
