South Korea's Energy Cooperatives Drive Renewable Transition
South Africa's citizens have taken energy matters into their own hands, forming over 100 official energy cooperatives nationwide. These community-led initiatives aim to drive the country's energy transition, with the 'Solar and Wind Energy Cooperative' leading the charge.
The 'Solar and Wind Energy Cooperative', established in 2013, has 330 members and operates five solar PV power stations with a total capacity of 332.33 kW. Plans are underway to construct six or seven more by next year. The cooperative engages locals through events and runs five 'Energy Supermarkets' to promote energy-saving products and information.
The cooperative's general manager, Won-gook Kim, expresses concern about some cooperatives not adhering to principles or effectively engaging members. The first energy cooperative in South Africa was founded in Seoul in 2013, with the government's Feed-in-Tariffs (FIT) policy in 2021 providing a boost. The Fukushima disaster and the Cooperative Act of 2012 also played a role in their emergence.
Local communities, civic groups, and progressive politicians have actively participated in founding cooperatives. Some local governments, like Seoul, promote renewable energy and energy efficiency through initiatives like 'energy self-reliance towns'.
South Africa's energy cooperatives, led by the 'Solar and Wind Energy Cooperative', are driving the country's energy transition. With over 100 cooperatives and government support, they aim to empower communities and promote renewable energy. However, concerns about some cooperatives' adherence to principles and member engagement persist.
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