JET In The News is a short summary recap of top events, relevant information and discussions, and articles on Just Energy Transition in South Africa from the last week. It aims to keep us all in the loop as it relates to our Just Energy Future!
General:
Presidential Climate Commision Launches Recommendations for a Just Transition Financing Mechanism Report.
The online streamed event saw the JTFM report handover, with contributions by the Minister of Finance, an address by the PCC’s Executive Director, and an interactive discussion session with international and local stakeholders and key partners.
Read the report here: https://www.climatecommission.org.za/publications/pcc-recommendations-of-the-just-transition-financing-mechanism-report
National Climate Change Response Fund – PCC Dialogue
The PCC will host a public dialogue on the design of the Climate Change Response Fund as announced by the President in his February 2024 State of the Nation Address, as well as consider options for its possible form, modality of operation, and funding mechanisms.
More information here: https://www.climatecommission.org.za/events/national-climate-change-response-fund-dialogue
South Africa appeals to donors to delay its climate targets
“South Africa told climate donors on Monday that it would miss its 2030 emissions goals, but was committed to “net zero” by mid-century as it races to remove financial and other hurdles to rolling out renewables, the new energy minister said.”
Read More: https://www.bizcommunity.com/article/south-africa-appeals-to-donors-to-delay-its-climate-targets-minister-says-361628a#more
Fossil Fuels:
Eskom won’t ditch coal, delays decommissioning power stations
“Eskom chief executive Dan Marokane says coal will remain a critical component of the group’s energy security as it reaches the final stages of its energy blueprint, the Integrated Resource Plan, which was put out for comment early this year.”
Read More here: https://mg.co.za/business/2024-07-12-eskom-wont-ditch-coal-delays-decommissioning-power-stations/
Nuclear:
Koeberg Nuclear Power Station Unit 1 granted 20 year extension days before license is meant to expire
Despite communities, youth, and civil society organisations raising valid concerns about the long term operation of Koeberg Nuclear Power station, on 15 July 2024 the National Nuclear Regulator board has granted the 20 year extension license.
Read more here: https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2024-07-16-koeberg-unit-1-can-operate-until-2044-nuclear-regulator/
Civil society responds to NNR decision to extend nuclear power station despite concerns on safety and costs
Peter Becker, former director of the NNR and member of KAA, said, “I am concerned about this last minute decision by the NNR made just one week before the licence for unit one actually expires. The NNR has been under tremendous pressure to make this decision and we don’t believe that they have had time to properly consider all the submissions from the public.
Read full piece here: https://90by2030.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Press-release-Civil-society-response-to-NNR-decision-to-extend-Koebergs-unit-one-licence-.pdf
NewzroomAfrika discussion on Koeberg life extension
Former National Nuclear Regulator Board Director Peter Becker and Prof Harald Winkler discuss the recent decision by the NNR board to extend Koebergs life.
Watch full version here: https://youtu.be/7Vx8ko44f28?si=hRKqWHhlwCj6c_sS
Date: 18 July 2024
