The executive oversight committee (EOC) of the South African Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM) and Electricity and Energy Deputy Minister Samantha Graham-Maré have signed a pledge in which they commit to the swift realisation of the masterplan.

SAREM’s overall vision is the “industrialisation of the renewable energy and battery storage value chain to enable inclusive participation in the energy transition, serve the needs of society and contribute to economic revival”.

During the signing on September 29, the SAREM EOC expressed its full support for the plan and emphasised that the plan is based on a shared vision to develop a robust renewable energy and storage value chain that fosters inclusive industrialisation.

“This is a significant moment for SAREM and the committee. It is a clear demonstration of everyone’s commitment and desire to see the full implementation of this critical plan. Using the [Independent Power Producer Office] to sign the pledge also shows that the public sector is working together with private entities, labour and civil society.

“We are making strides with this plan, which has a primary aim to create 25 000 job opportunities by 2030,” Graham-Maré said.

“The continued partnership between government and the various sectors of society will assist in ensuring we reach all the corners of our country. This plan targets many young people and women, aiming to upskill and empower them.

“This plan is flexible and, through our continued evaluation, we will be able to respond to the specific needs of industry,” she added.

The EOC is constituted from representatives of the departments of Electricity and Energy; Small Business Development; Trade, Industry and Competition; and Science, Technology and Innovation.

It also includes representatives from the Atlantis Special Economic Zone, the Black Energy Professionals Association, the Congress of South African Trade Unions, the Federation of Unions of South Africa, the Manufacturing Circle, the National Business Initiative, the South African Energy Storage Association, community representatives, the South African Photovoltaic Industry Association and the South African Wind Energy Association.