The Current | Ep 1 | At the coalface of SA's energy transition

Loading player...
Welcome to the inaugural episode of the The Current, an Investec Focus Radio podcast series, in which your host Iman Rappetti takes you on a thought-provoking 10-part journey of South Africa's energy transition.

In this episode, Investec's Campbell Parry, Chris Holdsworth and Samantha Mooi are joined by James Mackay, CEO of the Energy Council of SA. Together they discuss the multifaceted social, economic, and environmental implications that South Africa faces amidst its journey towards a sustainable future.

00:00 Introduction
02:33 Meet the guests
03:11 Solving South Africa’s energy crisis
04:35 “South Africa is going to transition by mistake”
05:13 The economic impact of not undergoing a Just Energy Transition
07:58 Is it fair for developing countries to be penalised?
08:30 Managing the balance between profit and people
09:19 The European energy crisis
10:48 Government more committed to public-private partnerships
12:49 Progress on corporate emissions reductions and the REIPPP
15:00 Technology disruption is what’s really driving the value of the energy transition
15:35 Targets in the Integrated Resources Plan
16:50 Is nuclear an option?
17:56 The potential of natural gas as an alternative power sources
19:16 It’s time to implement our plans
20:20 What do we need to achieve in the next 10 years?
21:38 What impact will the energy transition have on jobs?
24:32 Affordability of renewable energy
25:42 Insights from COP28
27:21 Closing comments

Tune in to this enlightening conversation and be part of the dialogue that could shape the trajectory of South Africa's energy landscape. Whether you're an industry professional, policy-maker, or a concerned citizen, this episode promises to offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

This episode was brought to you by Investec Wealth & Investment's Global Sustainability Equity Fund. Invest in world class companies dedicated to achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and that we believe can provide you with attractive returns. The fund strives to have a 100% net positive SDG impact. Learn more: https://www.investec.com/en_za/investment/invest-offshore/global-sustainable-equity-fund.html
26 Feb 2024 English South Africa Business · Investing

Other recent episodes

Art in Focus Series 2 | Ep 3: Whose art is it anyway?

When ideas meet machines and many hands shape one work, where does creativity begin? In episode 3 of Art in Focus series 2, Investec’s Tristanne Farrell invites curator Antonia Strauss, artist Aaron Philander and gallerist Brett Bellairs to unpack how technology is transforming not just into how art is made…
4 Feb 34 min

NOW Ep 120 | Water risk is business risk

Water scarcity is no longer a future risk. It is already reshaping how businesses operate, invest and grow in South Africa. With water demand in Gauteng at record levels and ageing infrastructure under strain, water has become a material constraint on business continuity, supply chains and long-term competitiveness. For many…
3 Feb 26 min

Macro Monday Ep103: Precious metals’ dramatic fall

Chris Holdsworth, Chief Investment Strategist, Investec Wealth & Investment International, makes sense of a busy few days on financial markets, which saw sharp falls in precious metals prices. Despite the dramatic drop in gold, platinum and silver prices, precious metals prices are back to where they were in early January.
2 Feb 8 min

Art in Focus Series 2 | Ep 2: Women leading the way in art

From discovering and nurturing emerging artists, to building trust-based relationships with collectors, Emma van der Merwe of Everard Read, Shona van der Merwe of RESERVOIR Projects and Anelisa Mangcu of Under the Aegis, discuss the increasing prominence and role of women in the art ecosystem. These three gallerists open up…
28 Jan 40 min

Everything Counts | Episode 40: Debt management for young professionals

Starting your first real job with a decent pay check should feel exciting but what if it mostly feels confusing, stressful and a little scary? If you’ve made money mistakes before, missed payments or taken on debt you didn’t fully understand, you’re not alone… and you’re not out of options…
26 Jan 16 min