“Is renewable energy an economically viable option for South Africa?”“Renewable energy is a source of energy that does not run out when used.”“Economic it means giving good value in relation to the resources used or the money spent. ""Viable means capable of functioning successfully; feasible.”(Soanes, Hawker & Elliot et al., 2005) So, in other words, renewable energy is a cost-effective and successful option for South Africa. Each year, South Africa uses 1.3% of the world's total energy. South Africa's main energy comes from coal, but a quarter of the coal we extract is exported to other countries. In 2009, 71.1% of total energy sources in South Africa were coal and 0.1% hydroelectricity. The main reason why hydropower in South Africa is so low is because this country is water-scarce, meaning hydroelectric power plants don't have enough water to produce electricity efficiently. Eskom produces 95% of the electricity in South Africa and around half of the electricity in Africa. Most, but not all, of the electricity produced comes from coal, other sources include gas, wind power, hydropower and nuclear power. Renewable energy in South Africa would affect our economy because demand for coal is shrinking so soon coal mines will be. if wind and solar energy sources begin to be used, new technology may need to be purchased or built, wind farms and solar panel fields will be small while coal-fired power plants will take up a lot of space. Wind and solar energy are small contributors to South Africa's energy supply, but in the coming years they could become large and important energy contributors because we have vast open areas of solar panels and coastal areas can become truly half-papered. ....ica. Verster, R. pp. 119-122Dilley, L.; Earle, J.; Keats, G.; Nxele, AA & Ravenscroft, G. (2012) Conventional energy sources and their impact on the environment. Focus Geography Grade 11. 4th edition. Cape Town, South Africa. Maskew Miller Longman. P. 263Dilley, L.; Earle, J.; Keats, G.; Nxele, AA & Ravenscroft, G. (2012) Non-conventional energy sources. Focus Geography Grade 11. 4th edition. Cape Town, South Africa. Maskew Miller Longman. pp. 274-277, pages. 280Banks, D. & Schaffler, J. (2006) The potential contribution of renewable energy in South Africa. 2nd edition. [e-book] RAPS Consulting & Nano Energy, prepared for SECCP, Earthlife Africa Johannesburg. Available from: http://projects.gibb.co.za/Portals/3/projects/201002%20Nuclear%201/Appendix%20D%20Public%20Participation/App%20D8/potential%20of%20RE%20in%20SA%20Feb06 .pdf[Accessed 7 April 2014]