The image shows a large commercial building with solar panels installed on its roof, highlighting renewable energy efforts in urban environments.
South Africa has an untapped renewable energy goldmine: 88.8 million square meters of rooftop space ideal for solar power. A recent study shows that 80% of the 111 million square meters of rooftops on commercial buildings, schools, and hospitals are well-suited for solar panels—enough to generate 12 gigawatts of electricity and power up to six million homes annually. But without a national strategy, this potential remains untapped. Experts call for new building codes, mandatory solar installations, and policy support for virtual power plants—networks where small-scale producers sell excess electricity. While South Africa has five of these, regulatory gaps hinder expansion. To unlock clean energy and economic growth, the country must coordinate rooftop solar development and establish clear market frameworks for widespread adoption.
The Conversation