South Africa is in a unique position to benefit from the transition to a greener development path, particularly owing to the country's abundance in renewable resources (solar and wind predominantly). Accordingly, the country has demonstrated an increasing commitment to sustainable development, notably in the field of renewable energy.
Recognising the importance of effective economic regulation for the sustainable growth and development of South Africa, the Economic Development Department (EDD) commissioned the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development (CCRED) at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) to undertake a Regulatory Entities' Capacity Building Project. The project involves a review of the orientation and performance of various economic regulators, the identification of the constraints impacting their performance and the design and implementation of a knowledge capacity development programme in response to identified needs.
Renewable energy is one of the key sectors identified for the project. This seminar aims to share the findings of the review carried out by TIPS and stimulate dialogue and discussions on the renewable energy regulatory framework in South Africa. Discussions will notably explore issues related to the role of renewable energy in the Integrated Resource Plan and the Integrated Energy Plan, the key aspects for designing a successful renewable energy procurement programme and the experience of independent power producers in the South African context.