Can energy efficiency solve South Africa´s problems?

Although energy efficiency and effectiveness are related, some important differences do exist. They are not the only criteria which have to be considered in making choices for efficient power generation and various effective Demand Side Management techniques. The latter are particularly appropriate when applied to lighting and water heating. Together they make out an important component of government´s Energy Efficiency and Demand Side Management (EEDSM) programmes. Some case studies are presented and appropriate criteria are considered in the interest of helping the authorities and management to balance South Africa´s growing energy demand with the available supply of coal, nuclear, wind, or solar power. Even in sunny southern countries, solar PV is generally an expensive option. Direct solar thermal, on the other hand, is very appropriate for small households, but heat pumps are strong competitors in larger homes. The latest technology of generating power via concentrated solar thermal power (CSP) to increase the low efficiency of solar PV about three-fold, will also be referred to.