SA Sets New 2035 Emissions Targets, Deepens Energy Ties with Nigeria

The developments come at a crucial moment as South Africa balances the urgency of climate action with the imperative of economic growth and energy security.

South Africa has taken a decisive step in its commitment to global climate action by publishing its second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), proposing a new greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions target range of 320–380 million metric tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2035. The move underscores the nation's resolve to meet international climate obligations while charting a fair, sustainable path for its economy and people.

The announcement was made by Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday, where she reaffirmed government's "dedication to a just energy transition and the fulfilment of South Africa's Paris Agreement commitments."

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Technical Analysis Underpins Climate Commitment

The revised NDC is the result of an extensive, data-driven process that included:

• Technical analysis of South Africa's projected GHG emissions pathways up to 2035

• Assessment of legal obligations under the Paris Agreement and its rulebook

• Evaluation of the country's planned renewable energy capacity and implementation timelines

• Consideration of the National Energy Efficiency Strategy

• Review of the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which governs long-term energy planning

Minister Ntshavheni emphasized that these actions reflect the country's intention to transition to low-carbon energy, increase renewable capacity, and drive energy efficiency, all while protecting vulnerable communities and jobs—a core aspect of the "just transition" principle.

The 2035 target aligns South Africa with global efforts to curb warming, sending a clear signal to international partners, investors, and climate activists about the nation's climate ambition and policy direction.

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Deepening South Africa–Nigeria Energy Cooperation

In a parallel development, the Cabinet also received a report on the recent technical working visit to Nigeria by Mineral Resources and Energy Minister Gwede Mantashe. The visit, part of the ongoing activities of the South Africa–Nigeria Bi-National Commission (BNC), was aimed at boosting bilateral cooperation in the mining, oil, and gas sectors.

Nigeria's Mining Aspirations and SA's Expertise

Minister Ntshavheni noted that Nigeria is actively seeking to develop its mineral sector through increased exploration and production, with an eye toward leveraging South Africa's globally recognized mining expertise. The collaboration is expected to promote skills transfer, investment, and best practices in sustainable resource management.

Securing Oil and LPG for SA's Energy Security

On the energy front, South Africa is working to secure direct allocations of crude oil and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) from Nigeria, which would strengthen national energy security and reduce reliance on intermediaries. Minister Ntshavheni revealed that Nigeria has committed to finalize the commercial terms for crude oil allocations by the end of August 2025. This landmark agreement will grant direct access to South African state-owned and private refineries, opening the door to stable supply and more favorable terms.

Additionally, South Africa is keen to learn from Nigeria's experience in oil and gas production, as it seeks to modernize and expand its own hydrocarbon value chains.

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Balancing Climate Action with Economic Development

The developments come at a crucial moment as South Africa balances the urgency of climate action with the imperative of economic growth and energy security. The country's new emissions targets will inform both domestic policy and international negotiations, while strategic alliances—such as the energy partnership with Nigeria—will underpin economic stability during the energy transition.

With the Cabinet's renewed commitment, South Africa signals its readiness to drive inclusive, sustainable growth and deepen regional and global partnerships in the pursuit of a resilient, low-carbon future.