- The Mossel Bay Municipality has broken ground on Phase 2 of its Solar Photovoltaic (PV) and Battery Energy Storage Project at the Great Brak River Wastewater Treatment Works, marking a significant step toward strengthening local energy security and advancing sustainable infrastructure.
The launch comes shortly after the official opening on 5 November 2025 of the award-winning solar installation at the Hartenbos Regional Wastewater Works, underscoring the municipality’s growing investment in climate-smart development and reliable service delivery.
The new project, to be built on municipal land, will include a state-of-the-art 4 512 kWh Battery Energy Storage System. Once operational, it will supply clean, dependable electricity to the Great Brak River Wastewater Treatment Works, the Little Brak River Water Treatment Works and the Sandhoogte Water Treatment Works. Surplus energy generated by the system will be fed into the surrounding electrical network, extending the benefits of renewable power to the wider community.
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The R143-million (VAT inclusive) investment forms part of the municipality’s long-term strategy to enhance energy resilience, reduce operational costs, and support environmental sustainability. Construction is expected to be completed by June 2026.
Speaking at the sod-turning ceremony, Executive Mayor Alderman Dirk Kotzé said the initiative reflects the municipality’s determination to lead in sustainable service delivery. “The Great Brak–Little Brak installation will further strengthen our energy resilience, reduce operational costs, and ensure uninterrupted wastewater services for our communities,” he said. “It is another example of how Mossel Bay is not just adapting to the future – we are shaping it.”
The project supports the municipality’s GROW strategy, which guides development across Greater Mossel Bay. In line with its focus on economic growth and environmental health, the initiative also contributes to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 11, aimed at creating inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable cities.
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
