Potentials of small hydro power in South Africa: The current status and investment opportunities

The economy of any country is highly dependent on the development of stable and adequate power generation. The need for power in Africa is increasing and the potential for power generation is substantial. Hydropower (HP), both large and small contributes about one-fifth of world electrical power. A survey output puts the number of small hydro power (SHP) potential sites in Kwa-Zulu Natal and Eastern Cape provinces at about 8 000. In South Africa HP generation is negligible as coal contributes about 90% of total energy generated while other sources contribute the remaining 10%. South Africa is ranked 12th in the world in terms of the top emitters of carbon dioxide, exposing dwellers to risks associated with this emission as a result of coal fired plants. It was predicted that the global demand for electrical energy will gradually rise and the growth for HP production is projected at 2.4%-3.6% from 1990 to 2020. SHP is considered to be one of the most cost effective and environmental friendly energy generation technologies available. With the availability, reliability and simplicity of SHP technology coupled with associated advantages, this paper is to set us on a new bearing toward its employment.