Trillions in spending and a whole lot of energy: How much electricity does ChatGPT use?
The backbone of the AI world are data centres which are facilities where data is stored and processed. These facilities use about 60% of the electricity needed for AI functions with consumption varying from centre to centre.
Investing in the sun: Solar tax incentives in the age of green growth
A tax rebate of up to 25% of the cost of new and unused solar PV panels (with a cap of R15 000) was introduced for installations at primary residences, provided that compliance conditions are met.
Discovery Green and Sasol launch Ampli Energy: A game-changer for South Africa’s renewable energy landscape
By Jessie Taylor A pioneering renewable energy platform designed to democratise access to green power for South African businesses has been launched. Discovery Green and Sasol unveiled platform Ampli Energy, in a joint venture that marks a significant stride towards inclusive energy solutions. The platform offers a flexible, month-to-month renewable energy product that eliminates traditional barriers such as high upfront costs and long-term contracts. A new era in South Africa’s energy sector Historically, access to renewable energy in South Africa has been limited to large-scale energy users capable of investing in on-site installations or negotiating complex power purchase agreements (PPAs). Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), non-governmental organisations, and mid-sized corporations often lacked the capital and infrastructure to participate in the green energy transition. Ampli Energy aims to bridge this gap by leveraging the national grid to deliver renewable energy through a process known as “wheeling.” This approach allows businesses to access green power without the need for additional infrastructure, enabling them to reduce carbon emissions and energy costs simultaneously. Key features of Ampli Energy Empowering South African businesses Sasol’s involvement brings over seven decades of expertise in energy production to the partnership. Notably, the Msenge Emoyeni Wind Farm in Bedford, Eastern Cape, a 69 MW project developed by the ACED-IDEAS-Reatile Consortium, serves as a primary source of renewable energy for Ampli Energy. This wind farm, one of the fastest constructed renewable energy projects in South Africa, began commercial operations in October 2024 and supplies electricity through the national grid to Sasol’s operations in Sasolburg, Free State. Discovery Green has signed a power purchase agreement with power producer Red Rocket to unlock the second phase of the 150 MW Overberg Wind Farm, located near Swellendam in the Western Cape. This project is expected to deliver over 489 GWh annually to Ampli Energy clients upon its full commercial operation in 2027. Ampli Energy’s innovative model has already attracted a diverse clientele, including global fast-casual dining chain Nando’s, online florist NetFlorist, automotive company Hatfield Motor Group, luggage and apparel manufacturer Sealand Gear, and NGOs such as Reach for a Dream and the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital. By providing accessible and affordable renewable energy solutions, Ampli Energy empowers these organisations to reduce their carbon footprints and operational costs, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient economy. The launch of Ampli Energy signifies a strategic shift in South Africa’s energy sector, with Sasol transitioning from being a major energy consumer to an aggregator and trader of renewable electrons. This move not only accelerates the country’s energy transition but also creates opportunities for smaller customers to access green energy. Ampli Energy represents a significant advancement in South Africa’s pursuit of a more inclusive and sustainable energy future. By removing traditional barriers to renewable energy access, this joint venture between Discovery Green and Sasol enables a broader spectrum of businesses to participate in the green economy. As South Africa continues to navigate its energy challenges, initiatives like Ampli Energy offer a scalable and adaptable model for integrating renewable energy into the national grid, fostering economic growth, and mitigating environmental impact. Sources: Daily Maverick | Sasol | Engineering News | Discovery Green | News24 | Business Tech
Africa’s renewable energy leaders: Looking towards an energy secure continent
By Jessie Taylor As the global community intensifies efforts to combat climate change, several African nations are emerging as frontrunners in renewable energy and green innovation. South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya are at the forefront, implementing ambitious projects and policies to harness their abundant natural resources and drive sustainable development. Africa’s transition to renewable energy is not just a climate imperative—it’s an economic and social necessity. Over 600 million people in sub-Saharan Africa still lack access to electricity, accounting for 77% of the world’s unelectrified population, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Meanwhile, energy demand is expected to grow by 60% by 2040 as Africa’s population rapidly increases and urbanisation accelerates. Renewable energy offers a sustainable solution to meet this demand, especially as the continent holds immense potential: Africa receives 10 TW of solar radiation, has vast wind corridors, and has significant geothermal reserves. Harnessing just a fraction of this could dramatically improve living standards while reducing dependence on expensive fossil fuels and vulnerable energy imports. Additionally, renewable energy could create over nine million jobs by 2030, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), stimulating local economies and reducing poverty. As the global community pivots toward net-zero emissions, Africa has a chance to leapfrog to cleaner technologies, develop green industries, and ensure energy security for future generations. The time to act is now—and renewables are at the heart of that transformation. South Africa: Transitioning from coal to renewables South Africa, traditionally reliant on coal, is undergoing a significant energy transformation. The South African Renewable Energy Master Plan aims to deploy at least 3 GW of new renewable energy capacity annually, increasing to 5 GW by 2030. This initiative is expected to create approximately 25,000 jobs in the renewable energy and storage sectors. The country is also exploring green hydrogen production, leveraging its vast solar and wind resources. International partnerships, such as the European Union’s €4.7 billion investment, support South Africa’s transition to cleaner energy sources. Egypt: Harnessing solar and wind power Egypt is capitalising on its solar and wind potential to become a regional energy hub. The government aims to increase the share of renewables in its electricity mix to 42% by 2030. A notable project is the 1.1 GW Obelisk solar and 100 MW/200 MWh battery storage facility, currently under construction by Scatec ASA. Additionally, Egypt is positioning itself as a leader in green hydrogen production, with plans to produce green hydrogen for under two dollars per kilogram by 2030. The Suez Canal Economic Zone has been identified as a hub for green hydrogen development, attracting investments from companies like Siemens and Scatec. Nigeria: Expanding access through mini-grids Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy, faces challenges in electricity access, particularly in rural areas. To address this, the government has initiated projects to develop and operate 400 mini-grids and 50 MetroGrids across the country, aiming to improve electricity access for an estimated 1.5 to 2 million people. The country is also investing in solar home systems and hydropower projects, such as the Zungeru Hydropower Plant, to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Support from international organisations, including a planned $1 billion investment by the African Development Bank, is bolstering Nigeria’s renewable energy initiatives. Morocco: Advancing solar and green hydrogen projects Morocco has set an ambitious target to have renewables constitute 52% of its installed electricity capacity by 2030. The country is investing heavily in solar energy, with projects like the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex, one of the world’s largest concentrated solar power plants. In addition to solar, Morocco is focusing on green hydrogen, approving projects worth $32.5 billion. Partnerships with companies like TotalEnergies and Engie aim to produce ammonia from green hydrogen, positioning Morocco as a key player in the global green hydrogen market. Kenya: Leading in geothermal and off-grid solutions Kenya is a leader in geothermal energy, with facilities like the Olkaria I geothermal power plant contributing significantly to the national grid. The country aims to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2030, focusing on geothermal, wind, and solar power. Kenya is investing in off-grid solar solutions to address electricity access in remote areas. Initiatives like the Intersolar Summit Africa in Nairobi highlight the country’s commitment to advancing photovoltaic technologies and energy storage solutions. The efforts of South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Morocco, and Kenya underscore Africa’s potential to lead in renewable energy and green innovation. By leveraging their natural resources and implementing forward-thinking policies, these countries are addressing their energy needs and contributing to global sustainability goals. Sources: Africa Trade News | AP News | Reuters | IOL | AGBI | Africa Exponent | IEA | IRENA