India, April 28 -- A new report released on Earth Day, April 22, 2026, warns that delaying the phase-out of coal-fired power in South Africa will carry serious health and economic consequences.

The assessment, conducted by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), Greenpeace Africa, and the climate non-profit GroundWork, examines the air quality impacts of the government's plan to extend the life of coal power plants under the 2025 Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).

The report "Unmasked: The Health and Economic Cost of Delaying Coal Phase-Out in South Africa" estimates that postponing coal retirement could cost the economy around ZAR 721 billion (US$38.3 billion). These losses would stem from rising healthcare expenses, reduc...