Get ready for a jolt of electrifying insights in our latest episode of the High Level Podcast! Join the dynamic duo, J. Delport and D. Hoenselaar, who are diving deep into the world of electric vehicles (EVs) in South Africa and tackling the burning question: How many EVs does it take to break the grid? 🚗⚡Episode Overview:We kick off with an overview of South Africa’s energy production and distribution, revealing that a whopping 80% of the nation's total greenhouse gas emissions come from electricity generation and liquid fuels. We’ll explore how transport gobbles up 28% of the country’s final energy, contributing 11% to national GHG emissions. Eskom's coal, nuclear, hydro-electric, gas turbine stations, and wind power are all on the table as we unpack the nation’s base load and peaking capacities.The State of EVs in South Africa:How do EVs stack up in a country where coal reigns supreme, and grid capacity hasn’t increased in over a decade? With no new utility-scale generation capacity added in 2023/24, we dive into the nitty-gritty of grid demand, energy mix, and the economic growth dilemma tied to energy production.Challenges of EV Ownership:Owning an EV in SA isn’t all smooth driving. From the high cost of vehicles (starting at a hefty R700k) to the severe grid capacity constraints, we’ll break down the barriers that make EV ownership a bumpy ride. Did we mention 2023's staggering 6,838 hours of loadshedding? We'll discuss how this impacts charging times, grid demand, and the dark realities of staying powered up.Emissions and Infrastructure:We’ll crunch the numbers on carbon intensity, comparing the emissions from charging EVs with those from traditional internal combustion engines. With over 350 publicly accessible charging stations, we'll explore how SA stacks up against global standards and what needs to change to support a booming EV market.Industrial Policy and Future Prospects:Peek into the Industrial Policy Action Plan (IPAP) and Eskom’s role in supporting the EV industry. The episode will explore the chicken-and-egg dilemma of infrastructure vs. consumer demand, and why the SA automotive industry must pivot to manufacturing EVs to stay competitive.Fun Segments:
Permission to Bitch: We’ll vent about the ‘ball aches’ we experience in every day life.Life Hacks: Discover our latest productivity, health, and mental stimulation tips, from intermittent fasting to the surprising benefits of cabbage.Recommendations: Jono’s diving into "Blood of Zeus" and "Bridgerton," while Damon’s revisiting the classics with "Ice Age."Join us for a high-voltage discussion that’s as enlightening as it is entertaining. Get plugged in with the High Level Podcast and stay ahead of the curve in the electrifying world of EVs!
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