Our Trust Matters project which focuses on strengthening the role of community trusts in South Africa’s renewable energy landscape has reached an exciting milestone. We are thrilled to announce the release of the Trust Matters Project Update Report, showcasing our progress in building the capacity of community trusts under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP).
Empowering Community Trusts for Sustainable Development
The Trust Matters project was designed to address the unique challenges faced by community trusts operating in the renewable energy sector. These trusts play a critical role in advancing socio-economic development, yet they often encounter barriers such as governance, capacity constraints, and a lack of strategic alignment.
Through this project, INSPIRE has developed practical tools, including the Trust Maturity Framework, and facilitated collaborative Trust Connect Workshops to empower trustees and stakeholders. These initiatives help community trusts move beyond regulatory compliance to unlock their full potential as instruments of socio-economic justice in South Africa’s just energy transition.
Key Insights from the Report
- Trust Maturity Framework: A tool to assess and enhance the effectiveness of community trusts, focusing on governance, capacity, vision and strategy, and impactful delivery.
- Workshops and Collaboration: Insights from Trust Connect Workshops and Intermediary Sessions have informed our approach, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed development and capacity-building support for trustees.
- Community Engagement: A deeper understanding of how community dynamics and historical traumas influence the effectiveness of trusts, highlighting the importance of inclusive strategies for long-term impact.
The release of this report is not just a reflection on what has been achieved but a call to action for all stakeholders in the REIPPPP ecosystem. Whether you’re a trustee, community leader, or renewable energy professional, we invite you to explore the findings, join the conversation, and take steps toward building thriving community trusts.
Trust Matters Project
2025 Learning Event
Download the Report
