Johannesburg, 15 February 2024: Construction of the largest wind farm in South Africa is underway, marking a significant step towards the country’s clean energy transition and bringing a much-needed jobs boost. Coal producer Seriti Resources, spearheading the project near its New Denmark mine in Mpumalanga, aims to generate 155 megawatts (MW) of renewable power while creating over 800 employment opportunities.
“This project signifies a crucial turning point for Seriti and the South African energy landscape,” declared Peter Venn, Head of Green Energy at Seriti, in a statement. “Not only will we diversify our energy mix and contribute to climate change mitigation, but we’ll also empower local communities through job creation and skills development.”
The wind farm’s construction, expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026, aligns with South Africa’s ambitious plans to reduce its reliance on coal and integrate more renewable energy sources into the national grid. This shift is crucial for addressing the country’s chronic energy shortages and mitigating the environmental impact of its fossil fuel-heavy power sector.
“South Africa desperately needs new sources of clean energy, and this project demonstrates the potential of wind power to contribute significantly,” says Roger Baxter, CEO of the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA). “The associated job creation is an equally important aspect, especially in Mpumalanga, a province heavily reliant on the coal industry.”
However, challenges remain. Grid capacity constraints pose a hurdle in certain regions, and concerns linger about the long-term viability of jobs created in the renewable energy sector, particularly as technology evolves.
“While job creation is positive, we need to ensure these are sustainable and transferable skills,” cautions Nhlanhla Nhlapo, energy analyst at Intellidex. “The focus should be on creating a skilled workforce that can adapt to the changing energy landscape.”
Despite the challenges, industry experts see the Seriti wind farm as a positive step towards a greener future for South Africa. “This project is a beacon of hope,” concludes Baxter. “It showcases the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy and paves the way for further investment in this critical sector.”
As the turbines begin to rise in Mpumalanga, the winds of change are not only powering homes and businesses, but also bringing with them the promise of a more sustainable and equitable future for South Africa.