SA’s minerals and energy ministry preparing for the end of coal

SOUTH Africa’s energy department has said it will start preparing for the end of coal-for-power use in the country but cautioned that a retreat from the dirtiest fossil fuel must take account of the impact on the economy and the people who depend on it for a living.

In a presentation to a small group of business, government and research representatives on Nov. 15, the department said it plans to set up a Just Energy Transition unit to help deliver an outcome “which delivers social justice,” according to a copy of it seen by Bloomberg.

While the department declined to immediately comment on the presentation, four people with knowledge of it confirmed its veracity. 

The presentation may mark a shift from the rhetoric of Gwede Mantashe, South Africa’s energy minister, who has repeatedly said the country should continue to exploit its coal resources and not be dictated to by developed