Research task on sustainable alternative energy sources in South Africa for Grade 12, covering problem statement, background, mapping, and data collection.

This document outlines a research task for Grade 12 on sustainable alternative energy sources in South Africa. Here are the requirements for each step: Step 1: Problem Statement (10 Marks) The learner needs to: • Analyze why South Africa experiences load shedding and relies heavily on coal. • Select a specific geographic area (e.g., their town). • Explain the impact of electricity shortages on businesses or schools in that area. • Identify a clean energy source (e.g., solar or wind). • Formulate a clear research question on how this clean energy source could mitigate the problem in the chosen area. Step 2: Background Information (10 Marks) The learner must: • Describe the spatial context of South Africa's power grid. • Discuss the country's dependency on coal. • Compare the coal-fired power hub in Mpumalanga with the renewable energy potential in provinces like the Northern or Eastern Cape. Step 3: Mapping (10 Marks) The learner is required to: • Create an accurate Study Area Map. • Correctly identify all nine provinces. • Specifically highlight Mpumalanga as the coal-fired power hub. • Ensure the map includes a Title, North Point, Scale, and Legend. Step 4: Data Collection Methods (10 Marks) The learner must use at least three data collection methods, incorporating both primary and secondary sources. • Primary Sources: • Questionnaires/Interviews: Conduct surveys with local residents or business owners to gather firsthand information on load shedding impacts and willingness to adopt alternative energy sources. • Field Observations: Assess the physical environment to identify suitable locations for renewable infrastructure, considering factors like unobstructed sunlight, high-altitude wind potential, or proximity to Eskom substations. • Photographs and Site Maps: Visually document the current energy landscape, including aging infrastructure or existing solar installations, and show potential for green development. • Secondary Sources: • Literature and Map Analysis: Research existing data from the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), Eskom's transmission reports, and official Solar/Wind Atlases to provide a scientific foundation for the investigation. Send me the next one 📸