Beyond electricity: Wind power to produce carbon-neutral synthetic fuels

Abstract

Solar PV and wind are the two cheapest new-build options in South Africa per energy unit today. Significant technology cost reductions in recent years combined with world class solar and wind (>35% load factor achievable in almost 70% of South Africa’s land mass) resources in the country have led to this result. South African renewable electricity will always be cheaper than in most other parts of the world, thanks to the excellent solar and wind resource. Cheapest renewable electricity is a competitive advantage that will never go away. In addition, South Africa has vast experience in the creation of synthetic liquid fuels. The CSIR intents to pilot a Power-to-Liquid plant on its campus in Pretoria to commercialise the technology together with partners from private industry.