Energy & Electricity
Energy conversion, cost of electricity, Eskom
Energy and Electricity
Energy can be converted from one form to another but cannot be created or destroyed. In South Africa, most electricity is generated by Eskom using coal. Energy cost is calculated in kilowatt-hours: Energy = Power x Time.
Example
Calculating Electricity Cost
A 2 000 W heater runs for 3 hours. Energy = 2 kW x 3 h = 6 kWh. At R2.50 per kWh, cost = 6 x R2.50 = R15.00. An LED bulb (10 W) uses 10 times less energy than an old incandescent bulb (100 W).
Note
Key Point
South Africa faces electricity challenges including load shedding. Saving electricity is both a financial and national responsibility. Renewable energy sources are increasingly important for SA's energy future.
Key Vocabulary
Energy conversionChanging energy from one form to another
Kilowatt-hourA unit of energy equal to using 1 kilowatt of power for 1 hour
Renewable energyEnergy from sources that are naturally replenished, like solar and wind
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Energy conversion
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