As Cape Town continues its journey towards sustainable development, a critical focus emerges on providing energy solutions for off-grid informal settlements.
While nearly all older informal settlements in City-supplied areas have been electrified where feasible, the challenge remains for newer settlements and those on land unsuitable for grid connection.
The City’s Urban Energy Poverty Programme is spearheading efforts to explore alternative energy solutions in these areas, not only to enhance living conditions but also to mitigate the risk of fires often caused by open flames.
Recently, City Mayoral Committee Member, Councillor Beverley van Reenen, engaged with community partners such as iShack, Zonke Energy and the University of Exeter to witness firsthand their initiatives in providing household power and public lighting where grid connection is unfeasible.
Partnerships like these exemplify the collaborative approach the City is taking to address energy poverty.
‘Our investigation delves into the benefits and opportunities of scaling up alternative energy solutions,’ said Councillor Van Reenen.
‘Our focus spans indoor solar lights, renewable energy public lighting, alternative energy for cellphone charging, as well as smart cookers and wonderbags for affordability and safety.’
The City’s commitment to community engagement is evident through conducted surveys to understand community perceptions and identify hurdles and opportunities regarding alternative energy. This research will inform the Urban Energy Poverty Programme’s future endeavours.
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Organizations like iShack, Zonke Energy and the University of Exeter express optimism about the City’s efforts.
Damian Conway from iShack emphasises the importance of market-making policies to enable access to basic energy for the poorest households, while Alex Densmore from Zonke Energy applauds the exploration of free basic energy services for off-grid households.
The University of Exeter’s partnership highlights the significance of appropriate public lighting in informal settlements for residents’ wellbeing and safety. Federico Caprotti emphasises the project’s co-development with users, explaining community involvement in improving quality of life.
Looking ahead, the City aims to pilot alternative public lighting options, provide solar indoor lights and cellphone charging devices, and promote smart cookers and wonderbags through partnerships and donations.
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Picture: City of Cape Town