- On Friday, 24 January 2025, Premier Alan Winde took part in the official sod-turning ceremony for the multi-million Rand renewable energy project being constructed in Riversdale, in the southern Cape.
- This project will bring reliable, affordable, and renewable energy to this growing hub of economic activity and job creation.
This energy project will be critical in protecting the residents of Riversdale and its surrounds from any further Eskom power cuts in the future, securing economic growth, and driving job creation in the region.
The solar project comprises:
- 10 MW-hours of solar photovoltaic (PV) capable of generating 15 million kilowatt-hours annually;
- a battery energy storage system (BESS) with a storage capacity of 10 MW-hours will enable efficient energy storage and discharge; and
- the implementation of advanced monitoring and control systems for real-time performance tracking and optimisation.
The Western Cape Government encourages the private sector to keep playing its part in building up a sustainable and cost-effective energy system in the province. “The energy sector is bristling with opportunity and we stand ready to build partnerships to avoid the return of load shedding,” stated the Premier.
As much as the energy crisis has plagued South Africa, the exorbitant cost of electricity is also compounding the country’s economic growth woes. Eskom has applied to the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) for a more than 40% increase in electricity tariffs. “The provincial government strongly opposes this. This would put our residents under even more pressure, as well as impeding economic growth. This is why we must enable private sector stakeholders to help us reduce our reliance on Eskom for our energy needs. Where there is a reliable energy supply there is economic growth, investment, and more jobs,” said Premier Winde.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
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