Approaches to energy transition : a comparative analysis of South Africa and Hungary after changes in their political systems

Abstract

Countries across the world are transitioning from fossil fuel dominated energy to low carbon energy systems. They are adopting initiatives to encourage development of clean energy sources. However, the approaches, strategies and the pace of this transition differs from country to country. This study comparatively examines approaches to energy transition in South Africa and Hungary. The two countries have undergone a significant transformation in their political systems over the past 30 years, this was followed by a series of initiatives aiming to encourage adoption of environmentally friendly energy sources. While Hungary has prioritized nuclear energy as a way to achieve energy security and lower emissions from coal-based energy, South Africa has concentrated on increasing energy access and tackling energy poverty through the integration of renewable energy sources.