Perceptions of South African Residents on Alternative Energy Sources in Mitigating Load Shedding

There have been growing concerns in South Africa over the consistency of frequent electricity power interruptions commonly known as load shedding. This has resulted in significant and unprecedented negative impacts on the lives and livelihoods of its residents. This paper, therefore, examines the effects of load shedding on South African residents and their opinions on using alternative energy sources, such as solar home systems, as an instrument for mitigation. Employing qualitative methodology, this study leverages the strengths inherent to provide a comprehensive analysis. The findings reveal that all respondents have experienced load shedding and 90% indicated to have been negatively affected by it, which mirrors the experiences of the broader South African population. While there is a marked interest, about 75% among respondents in adopting alternative energy solutions to mitigate the impact of load shedding, financial constraints and the high costs associated with these technologies pose significant barriers to widespread adoption. The study concludes that effective mitigation of load shedding and its detrimental effects on the South African populace requires concerted efforts from power utility providers, retailers, and manufacturers of alternative energy technologies, as well as coordinated actions by the government and both the public and private sectors.