Renewable Energy Consumption: South Africa

Analysis# South Africa Renewable Energy Consumption South Africa's renewable energy consumption stood at 9.7% of total energy in 2021, representing a significant decline from its 1993 peak of 18.6%. The country has fallen 41.6% below 1990 levels, with renewable energy use bottoming out at 7.6% in 2014. This downward trajectory reflects South Africa's historical reliance on coal-generated electricity and limited renewable infrastructure development over three decades. A modest recovery began around 2018, following the all-time low. Renewable energy consumption rose from 8.0% in 2018 to 9.8% in 2020, with 2021 holding steady at 9.7%. This recent upward movement aligns with South Africa's renewable energy procurement initiatives and growing private sector wind and solar capacity. Despite progress, current levels remain well below historical performance, suggesting meaningful room for expansion as the country pursues its clean energy transition goals.