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The potential and reality of the solar water heater programme in South African townships: Lessons from the City of Tshwane

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  • Curry, Claire
  • Cherni, Judith A.
  • Mapako, Maxwell

Abstract

The South African solar water heater (SWH) programme is part of national policy to improve the country's electricity security, an innovative strategy to provide indigent households with free solar water heaters. The study assesses the effects of the government programme for poor townships on reduction of household electricity consumption, decline in energy poverty, and reduction in CO2 emissions; and estimates the impact of SWH on reducing electricity demand nationwide. It reports results from fieldwork carried out in the City of Tshwane to measure both quantitatively and qualitatively the success of the project's deployment in townships. Although households register average savings of 27% on their monthly electricity bills and off-peak electricity demand has reduced significantly in the area, a variety of problems prevented the project from attaining the desired level of impact. Difficulties encountered include technical faults with the heaters combined with nonavailability of maintenance; a rise in water consumption; lack of community engagement leading to apathy; and dearth of owner training leading to underuse. The gap between inflated estimates and real savings is discussed. Expanding the programme could generate jobs but significant challenges remain.

Suggested Citation

  • Curry, Claire & Cherni, Judith A. & Mapako, Maxwell, 2017. "The potential and reality of the solar water heater programme in South African townships: Lessons from the City of Tshwane," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 106(C), pages 75-84.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:enepol:v:106:y:2017:i:c:p:75-84
    DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2017.03.028
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Karekezi, Stephen & Majoro, Lugard, 2002. "Improving modern energy services for Africa's urban poor," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 30(11-12), pages 1015-1028, September.
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    1. Nasirov, S. & Carredano, N. & Agostini, C.A. & Silva, C., 2021. "Public perception and adoption of Solar Water Heating systems in Chile: The role of supply side income tax credits," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 135(C).
    2. Adenle, Ademola A., 2020. "Assessment of solar energy technologies in Africa-opportunities and challenges in meeting the 2030 agenda and sustainable development goals," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 137(C).

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