Master this deck with 21 terms through effective study methods.
Generated from uploaded pdf
Wave energy can affect marine life as noise and structures may disturb ecosystems. It is also only suitable in certain locations that have strong, consistent waves, and there is a risk of storm damage to equipment in rough seas.
Wave energy potential is strongest along the Western Cape and parts of the Eastern Cape of South Africa.
Wave energy is still in experimental stages in South Africa and is not yet a major contributor to the national grid, but it could be a future option to help reduce reliance on coal.
If less than 0.1% of the renewable energy within the oceans could be converted into electricity, it would satisfy the present world demand for energy more than five times over.
The two basic elements involved in wave energy technology are a collector to capture wave energy and a receiver that converts this energy into electricity.
Hydro power is a renewable form of energy that uses the force of water through dam walls to generate electricity. It is estimated that South Africa could add 4,700 MW to its national electricity supply by developing its hydro capacity.
Biomass energy refers to animal and plant waste material that can be used as a source of fuel. It could contribute between 9% and 16% of South Africa’s future energy requirements as the government and stakeholders like Sasol develop the capacity to produce liquid fuels from biomass.
Landfill sites generate methane gas from the decomposition of biomass in municipal waste, which has the potential for 7.2 TWh of electricity generation. If used for processing heat, the energy extraction could be even higher.
CSP involves a collector that captures sunlight to heat a special fluid, which stores thermal energy. This heated fluid creates steam by heating water, driving a turbine connected to an electricity generator, and the fluid is recycled for continuous heating.
Certain areas of South Africa receive more solar radiation due to geographical factors such as latitude, altitude, and local climate conditions that affect sunlight exposure.
The advantages of wind energy include that the wind is free, wind turbines do not contribute to global warming, and they can provide a sustainable energy source.
Disadvantages of wind energy include potential noise pollution, the impact on bird and bat populations, and the need for specific locations with consistent wind patterns.
The projected energy mix for South Africa in 2030 includes 65% coal, 20% nuclear, 5% hydro, 1% gas, and 9% renewable energy.
Eskom has started work on two new coal-fired power stations to increase capacity to generate 8,800 MWe and plans to reopen three power stations that were closed in the 1990s.
South Africa is considering building an additional 5 or 6 nuclear power plants, with discussions for approval currently underway, targeting completion around 2025.
There are plans to build two gas power stations in South Africa to diversify the energy mix and reduce reliance on coal.
The Integrated Resource Plan outlines South Africa's strategy for energy production, including the balance between conventional and renewable sources, ensuring energy security and sustainability for the future.
Renewable energy is projected to contribute 9% of South Africa's energy mix by 2030, playing a crucial role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and addressing climate change.
Challenges include the need for investment in infrastructure, technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and public acceptance of renewable energy sources.
South Africa can leverage its abundant natural resources, such as sunlight, wind, and water, to develop a diverse and sustainable energy portfolio that meets long-term energy needs.
The ocean fetch, which refers to the distance over water that wind can blow, is significant in wave energy production as coastlines with an ocean fetch greater than 400 km are generally more suitable for harnessing wave energy.