In a quantitative research survey conducted by Ask Africa – one of South Africa’s leading research houses – among 320 respondents across the commercial, industrial and residential sectors, including women in communities and business, it was revealed that 78% felt that Eskom encourages consumers to use electricity effectively and see the utility as one of the key contributors to the promotion of energy efficiency in South Africa.
A staggering 95% felt that it is Eskom’s role to inform people on how to use electricity correctly and sparingly, with 94% saying Eskom should invest in energy efficiency.
Entries are now open for the 22nd Eskom eta Awards, which do just that, attracting hundreds of entries in nine major categories from South Africans who are keen to share their energy saving measures and innovations. These range from commercial and industrial applications for South Africa’s mines and factories, through to power-saving ideas for lower-income areas and homeowners.
Says Dr Steve Lennon, Divisional Executive: Eskom International at Eskom: “South Africa’s energy savers come in many forms – learners wanting to make a difference, householders cutting costs, engineers and large companies working hard to reduce their use of electricity and save vital resources.
“The eta Awards, sponsored by Eskom and endorsed by the Department of Energy, recognise those individuals and companies who are truly making a difference in terms of using energy efficiently. Eskom cannot bring about conservation on its own; we need the commitment of all South Africans to make the change.”
“More people than ever before are becoming aware of their impact on the environment – and the necessity to manage that impact through reduced consumption and better habits.
“This year we’re looking for exciting innovations that will result in a better or more effective and efficient way to use energy, bringing about new and vibrant opportunities,” concludes Dr Lennon.
The categories for 2011 are the innovation, industrial, commercial and residential; energy efficiency awareness (previously Power Fitness); Efficiency Champion: Industrial & Communities; Young Designers; Energy Savings in Households (new category).
Winners receive R30,000 and runners-up R5,000, in each category. Entries close on Friday, August 5, 2011. To find out more about how your company can enter the 2011 eta Awards, visit www.eta-awards.co.za
please can I share my new design and product that will help rural communities in South Africa