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“It has been proven that there are no technical or economic barriers to renewable energy, leaving only the lack of political will as a barrier to RE,” Ruth Mhlanga, Greenpeace Africa Youth and solutions campaigner told News24.

She accused the government of being influenced by incumbent industry players to ensure that the status quo of energy supply networks remained unchanged.

“Vested interests in the fossil fuel industry with strong political ties use this influence to promote investments in fossil fuels rather than renewable energy,” said Mhlanga.

Recently, Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies announced plans for a third massive coal-fired power station dubbed “Coal 3” though the Medupi and Kusile projects have been hampered by delays and allegations of poor workmanship……

Greenpeace went further, saying that the investment into coal-fired plants was a waste of money that could have been used to kick-start a vibrant renewable energy sector.

“In fact, the huge problems at both Medupi and Kusile clearly show that new investments in coal are likely to sabotage the South African economy, and renewable energy can come online and feed into the electricity grid far more quickly and more cheaply than coal can,” Mhlanga said.

It does appear that the Cabinet is not fully united behind the idea of a third coal-fired power plant.

Beeld reported that Science and Technology Minister Derek Hanekom said government would have to rethink its plans for a third mega coal-fired power station…….