Carbon capture and storage in South Africa: A technological innovation system with a political economy focus

Abstract This research investigates the technological innovation system (TIS) approach in emerging markets, focusing on South Africa's deployment of the carbon capture and storage (CCS) project and explaining its underlying structures and functions. In identifying the shortcomings of the TIS, this study further considers relevant contextual factors that affect the successful employment of the system, particularly the political economy of the energy sector. As a result, it develops an integrated framework that offers a more comprehensive understanding of the factors relevant to TIS implementation. Utilising a qualitative thematic analysis to analyse secondary data, the findings of our study reveal the pertinence of the power of incumbents and the lack of a legal framework. The results not only theoretically contribute to the innovation system field but also offer practical suggestions for the execution and management of technological projects in South Africa.