10 years ago, we were complaining about growing at 3% (China grew by 10+% in 2010, Brazil 7.5%, Nigeria close to 8%). We were underachieving because of Eskom.
Now, same problem but growth projections are at 0.9% because problems that don’t get fixed evolve and get worse.
Now, same problem but growth projections are at 0.9% because problems that don’t get fixed evolve and get worse.
In the meantime, since SA first experienced power shortages, the economy’s structure has changed. Industries that hire unskilled and semi-skilled people are typically energy-intensive primary and tertiary sector industries. Can’t build factories without power.
Look at this snapshot. Sectors that employ semi-skilled and unskilled all about are struggling. You really cannot say that you want to address the unemployment crisis in SA while tinkering on resolving the energy crisis. 
The power stations are producing less energy and are using more. Mess! What. A. Mess!
The energy crisis IS A SOCIAL JUSTICE ISSUE! Why? Unlike many developing countries, SA’s informal economy is highly dependent on the formal economy. SA is also highly urbanized, 2/3rds of SAns live in urban areas. This makes economic resilience low for citizens.
Often times we view the Eskom situation as an inconvenience, but all of our economic livelihoods in addition to our safety, our health and overall well-being, are highly dependent on the resolution of this issue.
