South Africa: Solar Heaters Should Be Seen As Long-Term Investments

Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica has again urged consumers to use solar water heaters, saying this was not only a response to the current energy crisis, but as a sustainable long term investment for South Africa.

“The use of solar energy, which is a renewable energy source, will assist us in reducing the load of pressure on the national electricity grid while increasing energy supply mix as a renewable source of energy,” said Ms Sonjica addressing community members at the official launch of kwaNokuthula Solar Water Project in Riversdale on Thursday.
Solar water heating is one of the key energy response measures that were highlighted in the National Electricity Response Plan launched by government in January this year.

The minister said through the national response plan, government had acknowledged the importance of solar energy and solar water heating as not only demand side management but an energy efficiency measure.

She said although solar heating systems were important energy response and intervention measures, the development of solar industry in the country had important economic and job creation potential.

AllAfrica