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Sekhukhune communities call for social ownership of renewable energy

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Beyond extraction: Sekhukhune mining-affected communities call for community-owned renewable energy solutions

Limpopo, South Africa—Mining-affected communities in Burgersfort are amplifying their call for community-owned renewable energy solutions as part of South Africa’s Just Transition. This demand aligns with longstanding advocacy by trade unions, civil society and researchers, calling for a just energy transition that prioritises the protection and empowerment of workers and communities whose lives and livelihoods have been deeply intertwined with the fossil fuel industry, forming the backbone of its workforce. These groups remain particularly vulnerable in the shift toward a carbon-neutral economy. 

On Friday, 28 February 2025, the Sekhukhune Combined Mining-Affected Communities (SCMAC), in collaboration with 350.org, the Centre for Applied Legal Studies (CALS), members of the Climate Justice Coalition, Development Consultants, Ahinasa and Lawyers for Human Rights, invite the media and the public to engage with mining-affected communities in Burgersfort for the presentation of the Sekhukhune Social Ownership Case Study.

The Case Study examines the feasibility of socially-owned renewable energy projects for mining-affected communities. It outlines the role of Eskom and other state entities in supporting these initiatives as part of the broader vision for a Green New Eskom.

“A just transition must serve as an engine for transformation, addressing the legacies of inequality, poverty, and injustice. It must be guided by principles of social, racial, environmental, gender and economic justice. Social ownership of energy generation at the community level, supported by Eskom and other state bodies, is critical to achieving this vision,”  said Ferron Pedro, senior campaigner from 350Africa.org.

This event is a pivotal opportunity to engage with mining-affected communities, understand their challenges, and explore solutions that prioritise equity and sustainability in South Africa’s energy transition.  

Event Details

Date: Friday, 28 February 2025  

Location: Morapaneng Nursery, Morapaneng Village, Burgersfort, Limpopo

Organisers: Sekhekhune Combined Mining Affected Community, 350.org, AIDC, Climate Justice Coalition, Centre for Applied Legal Studies, Lawyers for Human Rights and Ahinasa  

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NOTE TO EDITORS:

Learn more about the Green New Eskom campaign here.

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