SYSTEM DYNAMICS MODELLING OF THE WATER-ENERGY NEXUS IN SOUTH AFRICA: A CASE OF THE INKOMATI-USUTHU WATER MANAGEMENT AREA

Abstract

The energy demand in African economies, including South Africa, is expected to double by 2040. The water-energy-food nexus, introduced at the Bonn 2011 conference, illustrates the interdependencies of these resources. In the case of South Africa, with its semi-arid climate and frequent power outages, this study focuses on the water-energy nexus. Water is necessary for electricity generation in coal-powered plants, while energy is required for water supply. Using system dynamics, the study models the current state of the nexus in South Africa and explores future scenarios considering population growth, GDP per capita, and water and energy intensities. The findings serve as a basis for discussing the country’s allocation of scarce water and energy resources. Further research could examine South Africa’s potential investment in renewable energy resources to solve the increasing energy demand.