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| The CMA is experiencing an
increase in the demand for energy. |
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| Economic growth leads to
a greater energy demand by industry and commerce, while increased urbanisation results in
a growth of un-electrified informal settlements. Low density, residential urban sprawl on
the other hand, results in increased costs due to the greater distances that need to be
covered by electricity cable and infrastructure. In 1996,
population growth was approximately 2% per annum, therefore implying an increase in
electricity demand.
High poverty levels and the costs of electricity and electrical
appliances result in the use of alternative sources of energy such as paraffin, wood and
charcoal.
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| The current standard
cost of electricity supplied by Eskom for domestic use is 23.19 c/KWh. The CMA is mostly reliant on fossil fuels for its energy requirements. A
total of approximately 379 000 tons of coal is used per annum, with 119 000 tons being
consumed by the Athlone power station. Athlone Power Station supplies 184 438 MW/hrs of
power to 287 688 consumers.
Approximately 86% of households in the CMA receive electricity.
Some 122 Ml of fuel oil, 936 Ml of petrol and 301 Ml of diesel
are sold annually. The annual growth in consumption for petrol and diesel is 6.4% and 9.2%
respectively. An increase in fuel inefficiency has resulted from increased congestion and
high average age of vehicles (over 10 years).
In 1995, 44% of all commuters relied on private transport.
Currently this amounts to approximately 50%.
Ambient energy sources, such as
solar, wave and wind, are under-utilised.
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The following indicators
are monitored by Eskom:
- Cost of electricity (in cents/kWh).
- Percentage of (un)electrified homes.
See a summary of all
Indicators on this website
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The following responses
are underway by the CMC:
- The Metropolitan Transport Plan has been developed, aimed at
improving the current transportation system and thus promoting the more efficient use of
liquid fuel.
- The IDP aims to improve the delivery of basic services including
electricity.
Additional responses underway:
- In 1991 Eskom embarked on national electrification programme to
provide informal settlements with electricity.
- Feasibility study commissioned by the City of Cape Town to
investigate the conversion of Athlone power station from coal to gas. Possible benefits of
a change to gas power include reduced emissions from current use of coal and cleaner
handling of fuels.
- The national Department of Mineral and Energy Affairs is
developing a policy to promote the use of alternative energy sources.
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- Do not leave lights burning.
- Use low-wattage bulbs in non-essential areas
and fluorescent tubes for good lighting.
- Turn off appliances when not in use. Hot
water geysers can be insulated, adjusted to a lower temperature or turned off while not in
use.
- Do not use heaters that consume a great deal
of energy. Wear warmer clothes rather than using more heat.
- Insulate your home and/or business.
- When commissioning the construction of a
building, encourage architects to design a structure that is energy efficient.
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