Basic HTML Version
94
UCT RESEARCH REPORT 2012
The
Energy Crisis
Energy, and in particular renewable energy and alternative
energy sources, continues to be one of the hottest topics of
conversation in the popular media as well as in government
and informed circles. Research is currently focusing on how
emissions can be reduced while at the same time poverty is
addressed.
T
he accumulation of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere is a long-term
problem, but immediate action needs to be taken. The impacts caused by
climate change potentially threaten any development and especially affect poorer
members of society. Climate change may be an environmental issue but it deeply
affects our society and economy – in particular the energy sector.
In South Africa and globally, most emissions come from the use and supply of energy,
in particular the burning of fossil fuels. Changing how we use energy and finding new
technologies and systems to produce low- and zero-carbon energy require rigorous
evidence, based on research. This involves quantitative analysis, including modelling,
policy analysis, stock-taking through inventories and carbon accounting, analysis of
climate-friendly technologies, and understanding how to change behaviour – with a
view to living well while using less energy. UCT’s Energy Research Centre (ERC) has
worked on climate-change mitigation – reducing GHG emissions – since the 1990s.
The ERC’s Energy, Environment and Climate Group, working with others at UCT and
beyond, is engaged in a number of projects that focus on energy modelling, poverty,
efficiency and renewables.
Changing how we use energy and finding new technologies
and systems to produce low- and zero-carbon energy require
rigorous evidence, based on research.