RENEWABLE energy is part of the fourth industrial revolution, and eThekwini Municipality and the KZN economic development department are committed to this path of energy generation.

 

The two entities presented their renewable energy plans at the 21st Durban Business Fair, taking place at the Durban Exhibition Centre and on Walnut Road. The business exhibition and street market end tomorrow, Sunday 29 September 2019.

 

The City's Energy Office hosted a masterclass attended by its stakeholders and businesses and showcased its commitment to continue building as a collective, and in promoting renewable energy and efficiency. In a presentation by Renewable Energies Manager Sbu Ntshalintshali, he showed that the Municipality is working towards its target of having 40 percent electricity consumption derived from renewable sources by 2040, and 100 percent by 2050.

 

Lethabo Maseko from the Department of Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs in the province said: “Plans are of constructing the provinces R,4, 26 billion renewable energy hub at an identified site in Mandini are afoot. The hub model estimated to create 3 540 jobs will be similar to Dube Trade Port as it will lease an effective business space for energy producers.”

 

Maseko said the hub will be developed over three years and with MEC Nomusa Ncube-Dube fully backing the programme, they are hoping phase one will kick-start around April 2020.

 

The Municipality's Chief Engineer Sanjeeth Sewchurran presented a grid integration of renewable energy and said study done comparing cost indicated that renewable is much cheaper compared to traditional generation.

 

He added that the traditional generation of coal has been also been protested by some communities as it is not safe for using coal.

 

"The renewable technologies are considered as clean sources of energy and reduce greenhouse gas emission."

 

At another master class held today, local filmmakers were pushed to be innovative in their approach to film production in the face of changes brought on by the impact of the fourth industrial revolution at a discussion during the Film Masterclass.

 

“New technologies, such as digital modelling, sound engineering and autonomous cameras were shifting the manner in which films are being produced, and this was what local filmmakers needed to stay abreast of in the industry,” said Toni Monty, head of the Durban Film Office.

 

Speaking to the hundreds of delegates, Monty said many of the careers associated with film production, such as location scouts, hair and makeup artists and wardrobe, could be lost in the face of new and emerging technologies.

 

"However, one thing computers cannot replace is the creative human element, so you have to start thinking about how your skills need to match up to the demands of the changing film production landscape," she said.

 

Metro Police's Snr Supt Parboo Sewpersad urged filmmakers to obtain the necessary permits to film in all parts of eThekwini.

 

"Our department can provide assistance with lane closures or parking bays for you to carry out your production. This is done for your benefit and the City's benefit," he said.

 

The Durban Business Fair runs till tomorrow, 29 September. Entry to the business exhibition is free.

 

For more information about the Durban Business Fair, visit our digital platforms www.dbnbusinessfair.com; Facebook page: @Durban Business Fair; Twitter: @DBNBusinessFair or Instagram: Durban_Business_Fair.

 

ENDS

 

Issued by the eThekwini Municipality’s Communications Unit. For media enquiries contact Msawakhe Mayisela on 060 966 4220