News24 reports that the SA Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu) has condemned the privatisation of energy generation to "capitalist companies" and expressed its support for a call for social ownership of the renewable energy project.
Energy Minister Jeff Radebe announced that a new bidding window for the next phase of independent power producers (IPPs) would be launched in November, which he expected would inject R40bn-R50bn investment into the country and create at least 5,000 jobs during construction. These projects would add to the 27 renewable contracts which he signed earlier this year. "Saftu is in favour of using renewable resources - sun, wind and water - to generate electricity and reduce the reliance of coal, which is both non-renewable and harmful to the environment and the health of the people around coal-fired power stations," said Saftu general secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi. He added, however, the transition had to be done in a way that protected the livelihoods of mining and energy workers and the lives of communities most affected by environmental pollution. "Radebe’s plans will do the opposite. 40 000 jobs will be lost, as mines, mostly in Mpumalanga, are closed,” Vavi claimed.
- Read this report by Derrick Spies in full at News24
- Read too, November launch of 5th Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) bid window, at Engineering News
- Read Saftu’s press statement in this regard at Saftu News
Get other news reports at the SA Labour News home page