The Energy Council of South Africa was successfully launched on 2 November 2021 by founding members from across the energy sector, with Sasol President and CEO, Fleetwood Grobler, elected as its inaugural Chairperson.
The purpose of the Council is to enable a thriving and sustainable energy sector for South Africa, thereby supporting a just energy transition, strengthening energy security and advancing inclusive economic growth. Its formation and ensuing work is premised on collaboration and co-creation by stakeholders from across the energy value chain, ultimately serving as the unified voice of energy in South Africa. It will play a leading role in driving stakeholder and policy alignment and assisting in addressing major issues in the energy landscape.
The Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) is a key stakeholder of the Council. Mr. Gwede Mantashe, Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, delivered the keynote address at the virtual launch event.
In reflecting the diversity of the energy sector, the initiative is led by CEOs from Anglo American, Central Energy Fund (CEF), Eskom, Exxaro, Industrial Development Corporation, Sasol, TotalEnergies South Africa and Naamsa.
Industry and business associations, such as Minerals Council of South Africa and BUSA, have endorsed the Council, having committed to working together to collectively address energy challenges that South Africa faces. To welcome and encourage membership from across the energy value chain, the Council is in the process of finalising legal and governance structures. While we have much work ahead of us, we are proud of what we have achieved thus far.
