The Southern African Energy Efficiency (SAEE) Confederation successfully hosted its 18th annual energy efficiency conference at the Lakes Hotel on September 20th and 21st, 2023. The central focus of this year’s conference was to explore avenues for enhancing energy efficiency across the continent and finding sustainable solutions to address our nation’s energy challenges. The event drew various energy experts and stakeholders from the sector.
The theme of the conference, “Energy Efficiency in Sustainability and Development Goals,” aimed to dissect South Africa’s efforts in implementing strategies aligned with the Sustainability and Development Goals outlined by the United Nations, particularly in the context of energy and water resources.
The first day of the conference featured insightful presentations from experts at the South African National Development Institute (SANEDI), who delved into the market development of Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) and ongoing energy-efficient projects. They led discussions on energy management, security, and sustainable approaches to enhancing energy efficiency.
The conference kicked off with a compelling opening speech by Zadok Olinga, the current president of the SAEE. In his address to the delegates, Olinga underscored the critical role of addressing energy and water scarcity as key contributors to poverty.
Dr. Zwanani Mathe, the CEO of SANEDI, took the stage next, unveiling the energy demands and consumption patterns across various sectors. Dr. Mathe introduced strategies that ESCOs and residential energy consumers can adopt to foster sustainable energy consumption and efficiency. He emphasized the simple act of turning off unused electrical appliances as a means to not only conserve energy but also reduce costs. Furthermore, the servicing of energy-efficient equipment was highlighted as a key driver of sustainable energy consumption.
Advocate Nandipha Ntsaluba from the South African Department of Defense delivered a presentation on expediting access to renewable energy. She stressed that Africa boasts abundant natural resources that should be fully harnessed for the continent’s benefit. Advocate Ntsaluba also emphasized the vital role of Energy Captains, namely ESCOs, as pioneers of continuous energy efficiency and sustainability.
The conference continued its momentum by delving into responsible consumption and reduction and examining the various factors influencing energy efficiency. The event proved to be enlightening for the attending stakeholders and initiated a crucial dialogue aimed at resolving our country’s energy crisis.
The 18th Annual Southern African Energy Efficiency Conference provided an essential platform for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among experts and stakeholders committed to driving sustainable energy practices in South Africa and beyond.
