EventsThe 1st International Online Conference on Sustainable Construction
Published
This submission belongs to the session 1. G – Global: Sustainable Development in the Global South: Challenges and Opportunities of the event The 1st International Online Conference on Sustainable Construction
Published date
13 Nov, 2026
Academic Editor
author-avatarMehdi Amirkhani
Citation
Connie Mocumi, Gift Laolang, Motheo Tjabane, Thabo Khafiso, An Evaluation of the strategies for advancing the implementation of affordable and clean energy in existing buildings in Gauteng Province, South Africa, in Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Sustainable Construction, 18 November–20 November 2026, MDPI: Basel, Switzerland
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An Evaluation of the strategies for advancing the implementation of affordable and clean energy in existing buildings in Gauteng Province, South Africa

Thabo Khafiso 1
1. Department of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa
2. Built Environment Department, Walter Sisulu University, East London, South Africa
3. Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa
Abstract

This study evaluates strategies for advancing the implementation of affordable and clean energy in existing buildings in Gauteng Province, South Africa, by identifying key drivers that can accelerate the transition towards sustainable energy practices. A quantitative research approach was adopted. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire distributed to professionals in the building construction sector. 150 questionnaires were administered, with 110 valid responses returned, yielding a 73% response rate. The found that Investment in clean energy infrastructure ranked the highest, followed by the formulation of implementation policies and regulations. Fostering international cooperation and partnerships, as well as training skilled and unskilled workers in renewable energy, also ranked highly. The results further highlighted the importance of continuous professional development, stakeholder commitment, and economic incentives in supporting clean energy adoption. The study is limited to building construction professionals and related energy management stakeholders involved in affordable and clean energy initiatives within selected building companies in Gauteng Province. The study also highlights areas requiring policy intervention, capacity development, and investment to support the achievement of affordable and clean energy in the existing buildings. The study provides empirical evidence to support decision making on priority strategies for accelerating clean energy adoption in existing buildings, offering guidance for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and construction professionals.

Keywords
Affordable and clean energy
Existing buildings
Renewable energy
South Africa
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