The persisting grid collapse in South Africa has led to the disruption of essential services over the years, as evidenced by the continuous severe impacts on the economy, society, and even people's health, whereby it has captured global attention through organizations such as the United Nations (UN). This has provoked various initiatives around the world to participate in building resilience in sustainability through implementing sustainable development goals at a global level, and South Africa should not be left out. Thus, to keep with this paradigm shift, this study sought to assess the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 on affordable and clean energy in selected building companies in Gauteng, South Africa. This research study adopted a quantitative cross-sectional approach. A questionnaire survey was conducted on construction professionals (construction supervisors, construction managers, project managers, quantity surveyors, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, civil engineers, and architects, etc.) specializing and involved in the UN SDG 7 in selected building companies, while excluding blue-collar candidates will be excluded from participating in the study. Out of the questionnaires sent out to the selected companies, 110 responses were received, and the data received from the questionnaires was analysed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis.The findings revealed a low level of awareness of the UN SDG 7 in Gauteng. Despite the low awareness, the top three energy sources identified were solar energy, wind energy, and hydroelectric energy. The study classified the existing frameworks supporting the implementation of UN SDG 7 into energy initiatives and policies, energy development strategies, and global energy governance. The top barriers to achieving UN SDG 7 were found to be sustainable development-related barriers and sustainable energy development-related barriers. Conversely, the benefits of achieving UN SDG 7 include sustainable development benefits, sustainable construction practices, and environmental sustainability. The key drivers identified for achieving UN SDG 7 were sustainability adaptation, as well as green technology and policy initiatives. From these findings, it can be concluded that the ongoing transition to clean energy will greatly benefit South African citizens by enhancing energy security.
- An assessment of the factors influencing the adoption of renewable and clean energy in existing buildings in Johannesburg, South Africa
- Onkgomoditse Connie Mocumi
- Emem-Obong Emmanuel Agbenyeku
- University of Johannesburg; Master of Science (MSc)
- Master of Science (MSc), University of Johannesburg
- 9962509007691
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Johannesburg; Department of Construction Management & Quantity Surveying; Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment
- English
- Thesis