Commercial and industrial sectors are the largest energy consumers in eThekwini Municipality and they account for 7.8 billion kilowatt-hours.This translates into approximately R7.8bn,according to annual data gathered in 2012.The private sector therefore remains an influential sector in energy savings in the City.
The Municipality in partnership with the National Business Initiative hosted an energy efficiency workshop for the business sector as part of the Private Sector Energy Efficiency (PSEE) programme today, 28/01/15.
The programme aims to improve energy efficiency in commercial and industrial companies in South Africa through the subsidised provision of free energy audits, energy training and other services to assist companies in identifying and implementing energy saving measures.
Considering the rising cost of electricity and the unstable electricity supply, many businesses are seeking alternatives to decrease their demand on the electricity grid. The PSEE provides the ideal opportunity to begin that process.
Derek Morgan, Senior Manager of the Municipality’s Energy Office encouraged businesses in eThekwini to participate in the programme and take advantage of the funding available for energy efficiency audits. He hopes that businesses in the City will form 10 percent of the national PSEE target.
Morgan added that the PSEE programme will not only benefit businesses reducing operational costs, but will also make an impact on the greenhouse gas emissions for the region and ultimately contribute to climate change mitigation. This initiative is in line with national greenhouse gas reduction commitments and aligns with the Durban Climate Change Strategy.
PSEE National Programme Manager, Chisakula Kaputu said: “The PSEE programme offers valuable, ready to implement energy efficiency solutions with no costs to small and medium businesses and nominal costs for large companies.”
Kaputu added: “It is time for business to stop talking and start taking action as no-one wants to do business in the dark.”
He was pleased with the attendance and enthusiasm of businesses and was confident that this will translate into business committing and participating in the programme
Bruce Scallan from Reutech Communications who currently participates in the PSEE programme said the programme has been a successful initiative and the benefits to the business locally and nationally have been incredible.
