Cape Town has launched an R14.6 million solar energy project at the Kraaifontein Wastewater Treatment Plant to reduce reliance on traditional electricity sources. This is part of a larger strategy that includes additional solar installations with a total investment of R20.6 million.
Solar Energy Project: Advances Sustainability in Cape Town
The City of Cape Town has taken a significant step towards its sustainability goals with the launch of an R14.6 million solar energy project. This project which is located at the Kraaifontein Wastewater Treatment Plant aims to reduce the city's dependence on traditional electricity sources. By doing so, it fosters energy efficiency within municipal operations.
This initiative is not an isolated effort but part of a broader strategy that includes similar solar installations at the Goodwood Transport Management Centre and the Gugulethu Electricity Depot. The total investment in these projects reaches R20.6 million.
Alderman Xanthea Limberg, who serves as the Mayoral Committee Member for Energy, highlighted the environmental benefits of the Kraaifontein project during a site visit. She was accompanied by Councillor Zahid Badroodien, the Mayoral Committee Member for Water and Sanitation.
Alderman Limberg emphasized the project's role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. "This programme contributes toward the reduction of greenhouse gasses by providing an alternative to electricity generated from fossil fuels," she said. Limberg also noted that the project aligns with South Africa's international obligations to reduce emissions.
Cutting Electricity Costs
The solar installation at Kraaifontein is expected to generate an annual yield of 1.5 GWh. This level of production translates into an estimated first-year savings of R2.4 million on electricity costs. These savings represent a tangible benefit of the city's investment in sustainable energy. The solar energy project which commenced construction in November 2023 was completed by May 2024.
Image: Collected
Alderman Limberg expressed her gratitude to the teams involved in bringing the project to fruition. "I thank the project teams for their ongoing hard work and dedication toward building a more sustainable, future-fit Cape Town," she added. Her comments underscore the importance of collaboration and commitment in achieving the city's sustainability objectives.
These solar energy projects are a crucial component of Cape Town's small-scale embedded generation (SSEG) programme. This programme is designed to reduce the city's reliance on power supplied by Eskom - the national electricity provider - and the city's grid. The SSEG programme is a key part of the city's broader energy strategy, which includes plans to upgrade and maintain the electricity grid over the next three years.
Cape Town Increases Investments in Energy
Cape Town's long-term strategy involves a significant financial commitment. The city plans to invest over R4 billion in its electricity infrastructure by 2026. This investment is expected to enhance the reliability and capacity of the grid, making it more resilient to challenges such as load-shedding. The city aims to add up to one gigawatt of independent power supply by 2026. This additional capacity would protect four stages of Eskom load-shedding.
The launch of the Kraaifontein solar energy project marks a milestone in Cape Town's journey towards sustainability. It reflects the city's proactive approach to addressing the challenges of energy supply and environmental impact. With the successful implementation of this project, Cape Town sets a positive example for other municipalities in South Africa. The city's commitment to sustainable energy solutions not only benefits its residents but also contributes to the global effort to combat climate change.
The Kraaifontein solar energy project is more than just a technological advancement. It represents a vision for a cleaner, more sustainable future. As Cape Town continues to invest in renewable energy and infrastructure, it positions itself as a leader in the transition towards a low-carbon economy. The city's efforts are a reminder that local initiatives can have a global impact, and that the future of energy lies in sustainable and innovative solutions.