Climate and Energy Counsellor at the Embassy of Denmark to South Africa, Morten Holm van Donk

Climate and Energy Counsellor at the Danish Embassy to South Africa Morten Holm van Donk said South Africa is on a “brave course” towards renewables.

While some say South Africa’s progress is too slow, others say the changes already in place (such as the focus on green hydrogen) are “a huge shift for an economy that is so dependent on coal”, he noted.

“These changes do mark the beginning of a tremendous shift … Much more is needed, but it’s a good beginning.”

He noted that in Denmark in 2020, 56% of electricity production came from wind power, and 78% from non-fossil, renewable sources; and the country also has two dedicated green-power islands. Denmark plans to phase out oil and gas completely before 2050.

The country also has a strong focus on green research and believes the transition will spur employment. But even if Denmark completely eliminates its greenhouse gas emissions, this would be just a tiny percentage of the world’s emissions, so it needs to be “all hands on deck”.

Ordinary people can make a difference in their daily lives, he added. “It just takes some thinking and responsible action.”

Holm van Donk noted that Denmark has cooperated with South Africa in the sustainable energy sector “since the dawn of democracy”.