CEO Voice - May 2023

Dear Members,

Welcome to our latest edition of the newsletter, where we share with you the progress and successes within the wind power sector.

This year, we celebrate having passed the landmark of 1TW of Wind Power globally. 3.4GWs of that 1TW is provided for by 34 South African wind farms located across the country, contributing to the national power grid. These wind farms have demonstrated their capacity to generate clean, renewable energy at scale, reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and combating climate change.

As we navigate the current energy crisis and advocate for the the role of wind energy, we continue to showcase that sector growth has not only fostered economic development but has also created employment opportunities and attracted investments into our local communities.

As we celebrate the strides made in wind energy, we must acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. Our journey towards a fully sustainable energy landscape demands continued collaboration and support from all stakeholders. It requires ongoing investment in research and development, as well as the creation of a conducive regulatory environment that incentivizes renewable energy initiatives.

I’d like to take this opportunity to highlight the latest advancements presented by Operation Vulindlela in addressing the energy action plan. Our voice continues to amplify the need for grid optimisation to include more renewables in the short term, and in the coming week, we will present some progress through our partnership with Eskom to enhance grid planning, strengthening and expansion by presenting the results of the Renewable Energy Grid Survey Results.

Despite the energy crisis, it is important to remember that South Africa has made tremendous strides in the development of renewable energy, with wind power playing a significant role in shaping the country’s sustainable future. The remarkable potential of wind energy is evident, and it is with great pride that we witness the maturation of this industry.

Thank you for your continued support.

Kind regards,
Niveshen Govender
CEO, South African Wind Energy Association