Sustainable Energy Solutions
Sustainable or 'renewable energy' options help us to improve energy efficiency. Some technologies tend to cost more, initially, but it quickly pays for itself. There are also advantages associated with reduced dependence on non-renwable energy resources such as oil and coal. And what can be more satisfying than enjoying home comforts such as cooked food and hot showers without having to pay the health and safety costs associated with dirty coal-fired power. [page under construction, please visit again]
WIND
- South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA): Read their input to the Dept of Energy's new Integrated Resource Plan (IRP2): SAWEA Report 2010
- Wind energy: This can be linked to a favourable Renewable Energy Feed-In Tariff (REFIT) by the National Energy Regulator. Supplier info (in alphabetical order): African Wind Power, Eveready, Kestrel, Solien.
- Makana wind farm: Read the final scoping report on the Waainek Wind Energy project - proposed by Innovent.
- Environmental Impact Assessments: Current EIA updates.
SOLAR
- Solar cooking: Smokeless outdoor cooking (it beats braaivleis) using an energy source that is absolutely FREE: the sun. SA supplier info: Association for Renewable Energy Cooking Appliances (AFRECA ).
- Solar lighting: No need to feel lost during those power cuts. SA supplier info: Gener8.
- Solar water heating: Linked to Eskom's rebate system, it also cuts your monthly domestic energy costs by up to 40%. Learn about an Australian case study. SA supplier info (in alphabetical order): Gener8, Solien, SunPower, Tasol.
GENERAL
- Sustainable Energy Society Southern Africa: SESSA promotes and provides information about sustainable energy options.
- Southern African Alternative Energy Association: SAAEA represents and actively promotes Renewable Alternative Energy Solutions in our region.
- Yes to renewables campaign: Promoting 25% renewables by 2025.
If you know of other supplier contact info, please let us know on environment(at)ru.ac.za
Want to TAKE ACTION?
Go to the Rhodes University ENVIRONMENT front page. Suggestions/Questions? Contact environment(at)ru.ac.za
