ENCA - 17 July 2023: "City of Cape Town leads the way in dealing with power cuts" https://youtu.be/yMOfIV9ubmk
The City of Cape Town has risen as a pioneer in mitigating power cuts and load shedding, having implemented an innovative approach to the power crisis in South Africa. The city has crafted a solution not only to preserve energy but to create it as well - through the 'Power Heroes' program.
The Power Heroes program facilitates businesses and residences to sell their excess power back to the city's grid. While it is open to both categories, for now, only businesses have adopted this initiative. There are hopes for more widespread adoption by residents in the future.
Several businesses across Cape Town have already begun generating their own energy. This move towards energy autonomy offers benefits beyond just being cost-effective and environmentally friendly - it helps reduce the overall load on the grid, an initiative that the city duly rewards.
One of the highlights of this program is the concept of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). These contracts help businesses cut their energy costs significantly, without requiring any capital investment. A shining example of this is Atlantis Foundry in Cape Town, which managed to slash its energy costs by 20% using a 14 megawatt PPA.
As part of the efforts to incentivize businesses to procure their own energy, the city offers a wide range of options and tax incentives to make solar panel installation more affordable. This initiative has been particularly beneficial for many companies who were financially stricken by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Businesses that have installed solar panels contribute to the city's power grid by generating their own power and transferring their excess power back into the grid. During peak solar hours, from 10 am to 2 pm, these companies substantially decrease their grid dependency.
Moreover, the City of Cape Town encourages companies to invest in solar energy by offering a three-year incentive program that adds an extra 25 cents per kilowatt hour to their revenue.
An interesting observation has been that offices with low occupancy over weekends can reduce consumption drastically. They use their own green energy during the weekdays and export excess energy (usually about 25% of the total) on the weekends.
Not only has the Western Cape Province been leading the way in mitigating power cuts and load shedding, but two companies, Green Cape and Emergent Energy, are also selling and marketing their expertise to other cities and provinces. By providing alternative energy and selling excess energy back to the Cape Town grid, the Western Cape Province is setting an example for other regions to follow.
In conclusion, Cape Town's innovative approach to dealing with power cuts and load shedding has not only stabilized the city's power supply but also fostered a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.
To witness first-hand how this pioneering energy approach is being integrated into the city's fabric, consider relocating to the Haasendal Estate. Most new houses in this estate, including those in Greystone Village and Silverstone Village, now come equipped with 5kw inverter systems.
Haasendal Estate isn't just an investment in an upscale home; it's an investment in a more sustainable and resilient future. Enjoy the privilege of self-generated power and the joy of contributing towards an energy-efficient city.
To learn more about the availability and offerings of homes in Haasendal Estate, please visit www.haasendalestate.co.za. For more personalized service and to make Haasendal Estate your new home, you can contact Christo Booysen at 082 494 9255. Join the power revolution and make a difference today!
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