Coal and Energy in South Africa: Considering a Just Transition

The book chapter is on Emalahleni and forms part of a larger research project at the University of the Free State (UFS) that is investigating the current situation in the area and possible consequences of coal mining closures for local communities and mining towns. The book is aimed at addressing the gap in understanding mining towns, their communities and the likely consequences of coal mine closure.

Key Findings/Recommendations: The book makes five contributions to the literature. First, the wide variety of focus areas and a multidisciplinary approach emphasise the interrelatedness of factors playing a role in mining communities. Second, evidence shows that mining contributes to inequality and social stratification in mining towns. Third, the focus on explaining the current situation and asking how that will play out when mine closure occurs provides an excellent account of how decisions during mining affect how closure occurs. Fourth, the South African government has embarked on a process of planning the just transition. This national process has primarily been conceptual. The evidence in this book lays the foundation for thinking about a just transition in Emalahleni. Finally, the book assesses the notion of power in decision-making. The power of capital and its effects on local settlements and communities are crucial to understanding local responses to economic transitions.

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