By: Pamella Majola
Environmental advocacy organisation The Green Connection has criticised the government’s current fuel and energy policies, describing them as inadequate in addressing both rising costs and mounting environmental concerns.
The organisation’s strategic lead, Neville van Rooy, argues that existing measures fail to meaningfully promote sustainable energy alternatives or shield consumers from persistent fuel and electricity price increases. He says the current approach places an ongoing financial burden on households and businesses while doing little to transition the country toward cleaner energy sources.
Van Rooy emphasised that without decisive policy shifts, South Africa risks falling further behind in the global move toward renewable energy. He noted that continued reliance on fossil fuels not only exacerbates environmental degradation but also exposes the economy to volatile global energy prices.
The Green Connection is calling on the government to implement comprehensive, long-term strategies that prioritise renewable energy development, including solar and wind power, while reducing dependence on coal and other fossil fuels. The organisation says such a transition would help stabilise energy costs, improve energy security, and support climate commitments.
In addition, the group has urged policymakers to introduce stronger consumer protections to cushion the impact of price hikes, particularly for vulnerable communities already struggling with the cost of living.
Van Rooy maintains that a well-planned shift to sustainable energy would deliver both economic and environmental benefits, ensuring more affordable and responsible energy solutions for households and businesses alike.
