South Africa is one of the largest economies in sub-Saharan Africa and the highest CO2 emitter in Africa (Tyler et al., 2013). In South Africa, development is the main priority and it is possible that South Africa can alleviate poverty and inequality within two decades (NPC, 2011; Pan, 2005). Large greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are required to achieve development goals. However, South Africa cannot pursue the development path we have today. It is necessary to integrate climate and development, the question is: should climate or development come first? Development priorities for South AfricaDevelopment is a key priority for developing countries like South Africa because it is essential to meeting the growing needs of a population (Winkler et al., 2012). South Africa has several key development goals, which incorporate the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). South Africa's MDGs aim to (RSA, 2013):1. Alleviate poverty and hunger2. Provide primary education for all3. Promote gender equality4. Reduce infant mortality5. Improve maternal health6. Fight HIV, AIDS and other diseases7. Ensuring environmental sustainability8. Develop a global partnership for development. To achieve these objectives it is necessary to address the problems of employment, inequality, economic growth, food security and improving access to energy services (mainly electrification), transport, drinking water, education , health services and land (NPC, 2011; Winkler et al., 2012). South Africa's main challenges are unemployment, poverty and inequality (DoE, 2010; Rennkamp, ​​​​2013). The National Planning Commission has prioritized the reduction of poverty and inequality as the main development objective in its National Development Plan. .....OR! Invalid hyperlink reference. [Accessed 9 May 2014].Winkler, H., Howells, M. & Baumert, K., 2012. Sustainable development policies and measures: institutional issues and electricity efficiency in South Africa. Climate Policy, 7, pp.212-29.Mwakosonda, S., 2006. Aligning climate change and sustainable development goals in South Africa. [Online] Nies Japan Available at: www.2050.nies.go.jp/japan-uk/1st/presentation/3-3Mwakasonda.pdf [Accessed 8 May 2014].Pegels, A., 2010. Energy renewables in South Africa: potential barriers and support options. Energy Policy, 38, pp.4945-54.NPC, 2011. National Development Plan. Pretoria: NPC National Planning Commission. Rennkamp, ​​B., 2012. South African approaches to MRV mitigation actions: the case of solar water heater installation. Cape Town: MAPT University of Cape Town. MAPT Institutions Case Study Series.