South Africa - Wind and sun energy could aid energy crisis

Renewable energy - like wind and sun - is seen as a way to solve South Africa's energy problems if other countries' examples are followed.

German experts on alternate energy sources are paying a visit to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) in Port Elizabeth. Joachim Peinke says wind energy is experiencing a world-wide economic boom, but South Africa must still come aboard. He says South Africa can make use of it right away.

Peinke says, world wide, either solar or wind energy is in great demand because it is so economical.

Ernest van Dyk, of the NMNU, says they have done a lot of research on the use of solar energy for heating water and to convert it to electricity. While not as cheap as wind energy, this is another viable option when it comes to alternate energy sources.

The NMMU is in the process of developing a course for masters and doctorate students in renewable energy, in co-operation with the University of Oldenburg in Germany