Hon Speaker, the Portfolio Committee on Energy, as guided by the procedures of this Parliament, was able to compile and subsequently submit the Budget Review Report together with its recommendations. Our findings are rather lengthy; as such I will focus mainly on the conclusion as well as the recommendations.
The Department of Energy was able to operate independently as a department from 2009. Logically, all programmes on energy were transferred from the erstwhile Department of Minerals and Energy to the new department.
It is worth noting that quite a number of programmes have either not been implemented or have been implemented partially. For example, energy efficiency as from 2005, and the solar water heater roll-out programme as from 2009 were at times not implemented according to committed deadlines like the Integrated Resource Plan 2010 and the Integrated Energy Plan, etc.
As articulated in the findings, since the department was established on an incorrect and compromised resource base, anxiety must therefore be expressed around the extent to which the Department of Energy can sustainably execute its mandate and implement programmes under its wing in view of the huge financial and human resource constraints. This extends to the deficit and shortcomings in certain legislative and regulatory areas.
Notwithstanding the resource challenges, the Department of Energy has achieved commendably in a number of programmes. The dedication and commitment displayed by the Minister, the Deputy Minister, the director- general and her team, have also been observed. However, the sustainability of their performance is questionable if resource allocation is not appropriately provided.
Allow me to highlight a few recommendations that are also included in the report. First and foremost, our recommendation is that the Minister of Finance, in conjunction with the Ministers of Public Service and Administration and of Energy, should address appropriate resourcing of the department in both the forthcoming Medium-Term Policy Statement processes as well as the Budget Vote for Energy for 2012-13. Particular reference is made to human resource regional offices and international activities.
Furthermore, continental activities of the department should be expanded and intensified. A comprehensive plan for this area should be submitted to Parliament by the end of the first quarter next year.
Also, challenges in the distribution of electricity should be addressed as a matter of urgency. Special focus should include the restructuring of the electricity distribution industry as well as reviewing the legislative and regulatory environment throughout 2012. Reports of the progress in addressing these challenges should be submitted to Parliament by the end of June 2012.
Local manufacturing and beneficiation of products with special focus on, amongst others, solar photovoltaic and renewable energy technology in the green economy should be prioritised. Due consideration should be given to the use of urban waste as one of the sources of energy. Fiscal incentives to address renewable energy technologies should also be introduced.
An establishment of an African technology test centre in partnership with the New Partnership for Africa's Development, Nepad, should be explored by the Minister of Energy in order to standardise materials used to manufacture photovoltaic and associated products.
Furthermore, the Minister of Energy should emphasise education focussed on nuclear technology and the use of nuclear energy as part of its public education programme on energy issues.
Deputy Speaker, on behalf of the Portfolio Committee on Energy I therefore submit this report. [Time expired.] [Applause.]
There was no debate.
Chairperson, I move:
That the Report be adopted.
Motion agreed to.
Report accordingly adopted.