Deputy Energy Minister defends South Africa’s use of coal on grounds of access

In an interview in London, Majola reportedly said: “With the Germans, they can say ‘We’re moving from driving a Corolla to a BMW’, while we are still trying to get the bicycle. They’re talking about different technologies, we’re talking about access.”

According to one source, Majola’s comments reflect a 30 year debate between wealthy and emerging economies.

COP24 is intended to finalise the rules of the 2015 Paris climate deal.

President Trump, is reportedly seeking to pull the US out of it.

A key aspect of the Paris Agreement of 2015 was the promise for the developed world to transfer US$100 billion/yr by 2020 to the developing world to aid them in transitioning their energy, industrial and agricultural systems.

“There can’t be a transition that’s one-size fits all, we need a transition that brings everyone along because there are different levels of pollution,” Majola added.

According to one source, South Africa hopes to attract approximately US$25 billion of foreign investment in the next five years for its energy industry.