I sat down with with Marélie Botha and Lisa de Lange, Directors of Blue Crane Environmental, to learn how their women-led consultancy has become one of South Africa’s most trusted Environmental Assessment Practitioners (EAPs) in the renewable energy space.
Q: Blue Crane Environmental is gaining recognition as one of the most experienced renewable energy EAP consultancies in South Africa. What sets you apart?
Lisa de Lange: At Blue Crane, we pride ourselves on being pragmatic problem-solvers. Every project is unique, and our strength lies in tailoring solutions that are not only legally robust but also practical for developers. Our 100% Environmental Authorisation (EA) track record is proof of that approach. We don’t believe in a “tick-box” mentality, we work closely with our clients to anticipate challenges early and resolve them creatively.
Marélie Botha: Relationships matter. Many of our clients have been with us for years, and that trust is built on consistent delivery, transparency, and communication. We don’t just complete studies; we help developers navigate the full project lifecycle, ensuring they can move forward with confidence.
Q: Blue Crane is known for having a strong presence in South Africa’s renewable energy sector. Can you share some highlights?
Lisa: Collectively, our team has one of the deepest pools of renewable energy EIA experience in South Africa. We’ve worked on projects across solar PV, wind, and associated grid infrastructure, many of which have gone on to be bid and built under the REIPPPP and private built. One highlight we’re particularly proud of is the Carissa Wind Energy Facility, currently the largest wind farm permitted in South Africa to date. To have played a role in making a project of that scale possible is hugely rewarding.
Marélie: We’re also proud to be active members of the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) and the International Association for Impact Assessment South Africa (IAIAsa). I currently serve as the Western Cape Branch Chair of IAIAsa, which gives us a platform to contribute to industry dialogue and support the development of young professionals. Advocacy and thought leadership are part of who we are.
Q: Your consultancy is unique in being a women-only team. How has this shaped your identity?
Marélie: Being a women-owned and women-run consultancy is something we value deeply. It’s not just about representation, it’s about the diverse perspectives and collaborative spirit that women bring to the table. Our team of ten women are not only highly qualified but also deeply committed to pushing the boundaries of what environmental consulting can achieve.
Lisa: It’s also about mentorship. We’ve created an environment where younger practitioners are supported and guided, while clients benefit from the collective knowledge and experience across the team. We believe this is one of the reasons developers return to us time and again.
Q: Looking ahead, what is Blue Crane Environmental’s vision for the renewable energy sector in South Africa?
Lisa: South Africa is at a critical juncture in its energy transition. Our vision is to continue enabling projects that are not only bankable and compliant but also environmentally and socially responsible.
Marélie: For us, success is measured in both authorisations granted and long-term relationships built. We want to remain a trusted partner to developers, lenders, and stakeholders, helping renewable energy projects cross the finish line while leaving a legacy of sound environmental management.
Thank you ladies,
With their pragmatic approach, proven track record, and commitment to the renewable energy transition, Blue Crane Environmental is more than just an EAP consultancy, they are shaping the future of South Africa’s clean energy landscape.
For enquiries or a quote, please send an email to: Lisa de Lange – lisa@bcrane.co.za or Marélie Botha – marelie@bcrane.co.za
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
