South African national survey of research and experimental development: green R&D and cleaner energy 2021/22. Fact sheet 60

Abstract

Green R&D focuses on new or significantly improved products and services resulting in reduced environmental impact and the optimization of resources, contributing to sustainable development. Burning fossil fuels is the greatest source of electricity generation worldwide, releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide and toxic missions that cause multiple health issues and environmental degradation. Augmenting energy supplies from sources other than fossil fuels - like green energy (renewables) and nuclear energy - can significantly alleviate the burden on traditional power systems and improve efficiency and energy security, while reducing costs and damage to the environment. State-owned enterprises (SOEs) are the largest contributors to R&D in green and nuclear energy in South Africa. Yet, SOE spending on green and nuclear energy R&D has been on a downward trajectory since 2018/19, while other enterprises in the business sector increased R&D spending on green energy from 2019/20.