Falling somewhere between deeply ironic and visionary are Limpopo’s goals to develop a ‘green economy” — ironic considering that the 4800MW Medupi power station is the world’s fourth-largest coal-fired plant and the biggest drycooled power station, but visionary for identifying existing and future industries that could help it realise its ambitions and grow its economy.
Pitsi Moloto, MEC for economic development, environment and tourism, says this vision entails preserving or restoring environmental quality across existing industries such as agriculture, manufacturing and construction, while pursuing opportunities suited to Limpopo’s geology and geography.
‘In light of the need to dramatically reduce humanity’s environmental footprint — the province will need to adopt and replicate the best available technology and practices internationally, as much as possible.
‘This includes activities that help to protect biodiversity and reduce energy, materials and water consumption through high efficiency, decarbonising the economy and minimising or altogether avoiding the generation of all forms of waste and pollution.”
Skills, however, is a primary concern as jobs can only be filled by people suitably qualified for these industries. ‘The pursuit of green jobs will likely be a key driver as the world sets out into the uncharted territory of building a low-carbon economy,” says Moloto.
‘The province is aware that this will involve large-scale investment in new technologies, equipment, buildings and infrastructure, representing a major stimulus for much-needed new employment as well as an opportunity for retaining and transforming existing jobs.”
He explains that traditional skills and roles are suited to participation in this economy, ranging from designers, architects, engineers and project managers to construction trades such as pipefitters, sheet-metal workers and general construction workers.
‘Jobs will be created during the initial construction or investment periods and are likely to be local jobs, which is beneficial for developing regions and areas of high unemployment.”
The longer-term view is the general upliftment of communities through job creation and skills acquisition that will lead to higher skilled and therefore higher-paying employment. Participation in the renewable energy sector is key for Limpopo.
Aside from its large open areas that could contribute to its carbon-trading ambitions and wind and solar power projects, it has mineral wealth to produce solar energy products, including some of the world’s best silica deposits, and solar intensity. International cooperation is also a key part of the province’s strategy.
‘There are several projects at pre-feasibility stage, which in the future need global partnerships in technology and funding to ensure the commercialisation and creation of green jobs in several areas, including Musina,” says Moloto.
These projects range from solar project s to the decarbonising economy. He says these projects will lessen dependence on fossil fuels and move towards renewable energy.