By Johnathan Paoli
Energy and Electricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramokgopa has underscored the importance of balancing developmental goals with the urgent need for energy transition.
Ramokgopa was delivering his opening remarks at the 9th annual BRICS Energy Ministerial meeting in Moscow on Thursday.
“This meeting comes at a critical phase where our countries are grappling with the challenge of balancing developmental goals with energy transition pathways,” Ramokgopa said.
The minister highlighted that the expansion of BRICS membership was a testament to the group’s growing influence in the global energy landscape.
He emphasised the need for member countries to collaborate in reshaping the global energy architecture to ensure access, security and affordability, while striving to eradicate energy poverty.
For South Africa, this meeting represented a pivotal opportunity to advocate for a collective approach among developing nations.
“We must articulate our position as we harness our energy resources through innovative technologies that allow us to transition from high-emission to low-emission energy systems,” Ramokgopa said.
He further stressed the importance of an inclusive, people-centred energy transition that maintained energy security in support of socio-economic objectives.
Ramokgopa urged BRICS countries to explore their diverse strengths such as mining critical minerals, expanding hydropower and developing clean energy technologies, including hydrogen solutions and nuclear energy.
He also referenced the challenges identified during the BRICS Summit last year, including the need for integrated energy policy frameworks, infrastructure development, technology transfer and capacity building.
As the meeting unfolded, Ramokgopa looked ahead to the critical discussions on the ministerial communique and its implications for future events.
He extended his best wishes for the success of the BRICS presidency and congratulated the Brazilian government as it prepares to host the G20 Energy Transition Working Group and Ministerial meetings.
In conclusion, Ramokgopa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to the outcomes of the BRICS meeting, emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts in navigating the complexities of energy transition.
“We look forward to fruitful discussions and outcomes that will benefit all member states,” he concluded.
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