Work

The paradox of renewable energy integration in South African' smart cities

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The rapid development of urban centres presents a unique opportunity for countries to embrace innovative technologies and create sustainable futures. However, many developing countries, like South Africa, face a complex challenge: their aspirations for smart cities with advanced infrastructure often clash with their current energy realities. This paper explores the paradoxical situation hindering South Africa s progress in both smart city development and renewable energy integration. While the country aspires to create advanced, sustainable urban centres, its reliance on fossil fuels and existing infrastructure challenges this goal. The study employed a secondary data review analysis to examine the factors contributing to this paradox, including economic constraints, political instability, and social inequalities. Additionally, it analyses the role of vested interests and regulatory barriers. Finally, the study proposes actionable recommendations to overcome this paradox, encouraging innovative financing mechanisms, stakeholder engagement, acknowledging urban realities, and policy coherence.

Source: Human Science Research Council SA

DOI: 10.14749/32360790

Author: Human Sciences Research Council

Language: English

Topic: Smart Cities and Technologies

Subfield: Media Technology

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Affordable and clean energy, Sustainable cities and communities, Climate action

Open Access status: green

Funder: Human Sciences Research Council

OpenAlex ID: W7162099397

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