18 October 2011: Dipuo Peters, Minister of Energy, South Africa, has signed a work plan agreement with the International Energy Agency (IEA). The agreement is seen as a first step towards implementing the IEA–South Africa Memorandum of Understanding signed in July 2011.

The agreement was signed during the IEA’s bi-annual ministerial meeting, held in Paris, France, from 18-19 October 2011. It includes clauses on cooperating on energy efficiency, renewable energy, capacity building, carbon capture and storage (CCS), data collection, energy technology and policy and market analysis. The collaboration is to address mutual concerns such as ensuring security of energy supply and economic growth for South Africa. It also aims at building a cleaner energy mix and improving information sharing. The work plan, which is expected to increase the frequency and depth of contact between officials and experts, has been established to identify and elaborate on the strategic direction and specific details of future joint work.

Activities identified in the work plan include: participation in various IEA workshops and training events; contributions to research and analysis on energy technologies, policy and renewable energy; contributions to data collection; and developing roadmaps related to solar energy as well as a carbon capture and storage framework for development. Additionally, the two parties will address cooperation within frameworks such as the International Low-carbon Energy Technology Platform, and regional structures such as the South African Power Pool. [South African Press Release] [South Africa-IEA Joint Programme of Work] [IISD Reporting Services Story on IEA Ministerial]