Household energy needs and utilization patterns in the Giyani rural communities of Limpopo Province, South Africa

A study was conducted in the rural communities of the Giyani district in Limpopo Province, with the aim of identifying types of energy resources used and the patterns of utilization of such energy sources. Surveys were conducted in three villages and semi-structured questionnaires were used to interview 20 randomly selected households per village. Focus group discussions were also held in each of the surveyed villages. Data obtained in all surveyed villages showed that fuel wood is the main source of energy for cooking and heating while paraffin and candles are mainly used for lighting. Wood in these villages is very scarce and communities spend 5 to 6 hours per trip collecting fuel wood. Women using the loadhead method of carrying wood and occasionally wheelbarrows are the main source of labour used in collecting fuel wood. The paper concludes that there is a need to promote sustainable energy resources and technologies such as the use of improved wood and charcoal stoves. Furthermore, the paper recommends the promotion of solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, which have a potential of being adopted in the area. It is also argued that policies which enhance integrated rural development and promote sustainable energy utilization in rural communities need to be put in place and implemented.