Cape City, South Africa – In a historic transfer in the direction of power self-sufficiency, Cape City has commenced building on its first utility-scale photo voltaic photovoltaic (PV) plant in Atlantis. The 7MW-10MW challenge, a pioneering initiative by a South African municipality, marks a big step in the direction of diversifying power sources and lowering reliance on Eskom’s energy provide.
Cape City Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and Vitality Mayco Member Alderman Xanthea Limberg turned the sod on the building web site, heralding the start of a brand new period for town. “This can be a momentous event for Cape City and the individuals of Atlantis,” mentioned Hill-Lewis. “This photo voltaic plant is a testomony to our dedication to constructing a extra sustainable and resilient power future.”
The R200 million challenge, anticipated to be accomplished inside a yr, will hook up with a close-by substation, feeding energy instantly into the grid. Town anticipates the primary electrical energy technology by late 2025 and is exploring plans to copy this mannequin throughout the metro.
In an extra increase to its power infrastructure, Cape City additionally introduced the discharge of its first 5MW battery storage tender. The storage facility, to be constructed on the identical web site, will function a pilot challenge for integrating power storage into town’s community. “The Battery Vitality Storage System (BESS) Venture will improve our potential to handle power provide and demand, making certain a extra dependable and environment friendly grid,” mentioned Limberg.
Cape City’s funding in renewable power aligns with its broader infrastructure growth program, which incorporates R39.5 billion in spending between 2024 and 2027. Town goals to cut back its dependence on Eskom as electrical energy costs proceed to soar, and the Atlantis challenge is anticipated to create jobs and stimulate the native financial system.
“Our Atlantis challenge could have a big constructive affect on the financial system and job creation, rising inexperienced jobs throughout numerous talent ranges,” mentioned Hill-Lewis. “We’re working carefully with all stakeholders to make sure the challenge’s success.”
Presently, Cape City spends a staggering 75% of its electrical energy tariff revenue on buying energy from Eskom, a scenario that each Limberg and Hill-Lewis deem unsustainable. The transition to renewable power is seen as a vital step in the direction of mitigating these rising prices and securing a extra steady power future for town.
