As the energy industry matures, traditional notions of “resource-rich” countries are becoming obsolete. Nations like Saudi Arabia and Venezuela may continue to dominate the OPEC list, but the new energy economy plays by very different rules.
With on-site production and lower barriers to entry, solar power allows “resource-poor” countries like South Africa to enjoy greater energy security and economic growth – a fact not overlooked by the country’s leadership.
South African Push for Solar Jobs & Energy Independence
Through 2014, South Africa’s government will install 1450 MW of solar PV capacity through its Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer (RE IPP) program. According to industry experts, this initiative will create many new solar jobs – more than 78,000 over the next two decades.
Only a third of these new solar jobs will be in manufacturing, with the other two-thirds concentrated in downstream activities like installation. Comments Edwin Koot, CEO of SolarPlaza, “every MW of solar generates 30 full-time equivalent jobs, of which less than 10 for production.”
Domestic Solar Jobs via International PV Training
In a country suffering from 25% unemployment, this job creation potential has attracted a lot of attention. Already, some locals are traveling abroad to receive solar panel installation training in anticipation of green prospects waiting for them when they return.
But just how far are people willing to travel? The answer may surprise you.
Although the entire continent is rapidly transitioning to solar energy, there aren’t many solar panel installation training schools to choose from. So where would an English-speaking South African normally turn for affordable certification?
Well, you have the option of flying 6K miles to the UK or flying 8K miles to the US. Despite the greater distance, an increasing number of South Africans are opting for Florida, attracted by better exchange rates and its more familiar climate.
Kelly Arduz, Director of Operations at Florida’s US Solar Institute, reports a significant rise in foreign students in recent months – even from as far away as Africa. She adds, “Whenever nearby countries like the Bahamas or Jamaica launch new solar initiatives, we see a spike in international enrollment. She adds, “But I never imagined we’d be on South Africa’s radar. It’s pretty remarkable.”
