Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read | 24 October 2025 | 07:40 CAT

📷 Power lines stretch across a smoky Johannesburg skyline as South Africa debates its future energy path. (AI-generated image)

The recently unveiled Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) outlining South Africa’s R2 trillion energy roadmaps has sparked criticism from environmental and civil society groups who argue that the government is doubling down on outdated and harmful energy systems.

Electricity Minister Dr. Kgosientsho Ramokgopa presented the plan earlier this week, confirming that fossil fuels will remain part of South Africa’s energy mix as the nation transitions toward cleaner sources like solar and wind. However, the Southern African Faith Communities’ Environment Institute (SAFCEI) says the government’s continued reliance on coal, gas, and nuclear undermines its commitment to sustainable, pro-poor energy reform.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, SAFCEI Executive Director Francesca de Gasparis said, “There was a sense of government really trying to have it all. While there was some recognition of climate change, I didn’t feel this government is serious about a pro-poor way of sourcing energy.”

De Gasparis expressed concern that the plan fails to adequately address Eskom’s inefficiencies or the economic realities facing ordinary South Africans. “I didn’t get a sense that the minister wanted to do the necessary reforms that Eskom needs to deliver clean, affordable power,” she added.

The IRP’s inclusion of coal and nuclear despite previous government promises to phase them out has drawn particular ire. De Gasparis noted the influence of entrenched interests: “There’s a very strong coal lobby. It’s been declared a critical mineral, so we see politicians trying to squeeze previous interests into a new reality.”

She warned that the plan represents a “doubling down” on “false solutions to climate change coal, gas, nuclear that government knows shouldn’t be part of the future energy mix but keeps to protect vested interests.”

De Gasparis also highlighted two major weaknesses in the IRP: a lack of public consultation and unclear financing. “When asked about funding, the minister simply said, ‘We’ll let you know.’ That’s a glaring gap, especially as these energy systems will only make electricity more expensive,” she said.

With public submissions now open, environmental groups are urging South Africans to challenge the IRP and demand a transparent, climate-conscious approach that prioritises affordability and community well-being.

“We can’t afford expensive, dirty energy anymore,” De Gasparis concluded. “The people and the planet deserve better.”

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round-Up with Moulana Junaid Kharsany and SAFCEI Executive Director Francesca de Gasparis.