9. Energy Transition for Post-COVID-19 South Africa

This chapter contends that there needs to be careful coordination and appropriate funding of the required manufacturing operations for South Africa to further increase growth. When renewable sector manufacturing is ramped up, through solar panels and all related accessories, the country has much potential to generate growth and create jobs. Importantly, such enterprises and their associated benefits could be spread across the country. Seen in this light, this sector has considerable potential for underpinning the growth revival. The chapter argues for rapid liberalization of the power generation sector, and makes some specific recommendations on the need for state institutions to coordinate better to create more value in the economy, especially to build manufacturing capacity for solar panels. The core of the chapter sets out a clear strategy for a just energy transition that delivers employment in green industries.