Mpumalanga has long been associated with coal, power stations and the rising sun.
Now the wind is joining that picture. The first phase of the Ummbila Emoyeni wind farm near Bethal has entered commercial operation. It marks a shift in how this energy-producing province can generate electricity and a new contribution to the region and South Africa.
WHY IS MPUMALANGA TURNING TO WIND?
On 31 July, President Cyril Ramaphosa officially marked the start of commercial operations at Ummbila Emoyeni. The first phase has a generation capacity of 155 MW.
It consists of 25 wind turbines, each rated at 6.2 MW. Their rotors have a diameter of 183.5 metres, according to turbine manufacturer Goldwind.
The project stands between Bethal and Morgenzon, in an area better known for coal mining. That location gives the development particular significance as it places wind generation inside South Africa’s traditional energy heartland.
HOW WILL MPUMALANGA’S WIND POWER BE USED?
The electricity will not simply flow into nearby homes. Seriti Green, a South African renewable-energy company that develops wind and solar projects, is behind the proposed development.
Seriti Green will wheel the power through Eskom’s transmission network to Seriti Resources’ coal mining operations.
The arrangement means the mining group can use electricity generated by wind while reducing its reliance on electricity from the wider grid. Seriti Green says the first phase can supply about 75% of Seriti’s electricity requirements.
The project also connects the old and new sides of Mpumalanga’s energy economy. A coal company is investing in wind generation while continuing to operate in the mining sector.
That makes Ummbila Emoyeni part of South Africa’s Just Energy Transition, which aims to change the energy system while supporting economic activity and communities.
HOW BIG COULD THE PROJECT BECOME?
The 155 MW facility represents only the first phase of a much larger development. Ummbila Emoyeni is planned as a renewable energy cluster with about 900 MW of capacity.
The broader project is supposed to include five wind farms, a solar photovoltaic facility and battery storage. If completed, it could generate enough electricity to supply about 500 000 South African households.
Seriti Green has also reported that the wider development could involve investment of about R40 billion. More than R25 billion has already been committed.
The project therefore represents more than turbines turning above the Highveld. It signals a change in how Mpumalanga can use its existing infrastructure, workforce and energy expertise.
The province may still be the place where the sun rises. Increasingly, it could also be where the wind helps keep the lights on.
Mariana Balt
www.sapeople.com
