Perdekraal East Wind Farm, situated within the Witzenberg Local Municipality, is preparing to begin major construction activity on the Western Cape’s largest BW4 wind farm.
Since achieving financial closure in June, the construction team has been working on establishing onsite infrastructure, clearing and grubbing of roads and turbine foundations and preparing to construct 42 km of roads on site.
“We are gearing up and expect to have excavated four foundations by the end of this month,” explains Glenn Hobson, Construction Project Manager. He describes the terrain as gently sloping Karoo-type bushveld, with underlying rocky outcrops.
“South Africa’s renewables story is truly inspirational. We are transitioning towards a renewable future, which facilitates multiple opportunities for growth and development, within areas and communities that for decades have lacked infrastructure, investment and sustainable employment opportunities. It’s also a chance to work towards solving one of the most pressing challenges of our time; reducing the use of fossil fuels and the associated reduction of greenhouse gas emissions,” said Hobson.
Once complete, the 110MW Perdekraal Wind Farm, which spans 3 055 hectares, will comprise forty-eight, 115m-high wind turbines. When operating at full capacity, it will generate around 183 000 MWh of clean renewable energy per year and is expected to supply electricity to power up to 95 000 South African homes.
Perdekraal East Wind Farm will eliminate approximately 410 000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year compared to traditional fossil fuel power plants. In addition to zero carbon emissions and reduced use of fossil fuels, the country will benefit from minimal water consumption during the generation process and significant social and enterprise development programmes.
More information on Perdekraal East Wind Farm at https://perdekraaleastwind.co.za/
