Renewable energy in South Africa's minerals energy complex: a 'low carbon' transition?
This paper questions the extent to which the introduction of utility scale, privately generated renewable energy into South Africa's coal dominated electricity supply can be considered a 'low carbon transition' Rather, the renewable energy projects in question are embedded within and contribute to South Africa's high carbon, electricity intensive 'minerals energy complex' An empirical consideration is provided of some of the stakeholders involved in the implementation of the wind industry in South Africa, and the possibilities and pitfalls for its long term sustainability.