Western Cape wind projects enter construction

The Zen and Berg River wind farm project represents a significant investment in renewable energy infrastructure in South Africa's Western Cape. With a combined capacity of 194 MW, the project is expected to generate approximately 580 GWh of renewable electricity annually, contributing to the region's energy security and sustainability goals. The involvement of ACCIONA Energía, a global renewable energy company, alongside H1 Capital, Chariot Limited, and Nordex Energy South Africa, underscores the project's credibility and potential for success. Etana Energy's 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) provides a stable revenue stream and further de-risks the investment. The project's commissioning is scheduled for mid-2027. The deal is notable for its diverse offtake agreements, with Etana Energy supplying power to Growthpoint, V&A Waterfront, Tharisa Minerals, Petra Diamonds, and Autocast. This demonstrates the growing demand for renewable energy from corporate and industrial customers in South Africa. The project's structure, with ACCIONA Energía holding a majority stake and H1 Capital and Chariot Limited participating as investors, reflects a collaborative approach to infrastructure development. Nordex Energy South Africa's role as the turbine supplier and operations and maintenance provider ensures the project's long-term operational efficiency. The development of these wind farms will support the energy transition in South Africa and contribute to the country's climate change mitigation efforts.