Agricultural hubs create work and hope for hundreds
But Industrial Development Corporation funding for the project in KwaZulu-Natal is coming to an end
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M&A Activity in South Africa expected to remain muted in 2024 amidst global economic headwinds and regulatory uncertainty
Chris Green, Managing Partner, Hogan Lovells SA M&A activity in South Africa declined sharply in 2023 relative to the two preceding years, in line with global trends. The factors driving this included, amongst others, global economic headwinds particularly high inflation and high interest rates, the well-documented geopolitical uncertainty in Europe and the Middle East, ongoing …
Energy Action Plan, Eskom Generation Operational Recovery bearing fruit
Energy Action Plan, Eskom Generation Operational Recovery bearing fruit
Eskom’s performance over the past three weeks – which has seen no load shedding being implemented – is a result of concerted and deliberate plans by the power utility and government to deal with load shedding.
This according to Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, who was briefing the media on the implementation of the Energy Action Plan on Monday.
“The kind of progress that we are seeing today is largely as a result of the exceptional work that has been done by the team at Eskom. We are turning the corner and making significant strides to ensure that finally we get to see the back of load shedding. Of course we are not yet out of the woods.
“There’s been significant recovery as a result of the execution of the Generation Operational Recovery Plan…[and] as a result of, first, at the national level, the Energy Action Plan,” he said.
Ramokgopa added that there have been “phenomenal improvements in relation to the unplanned capacity loss factor” during the past week.
“We are beginning to see the kind of improvement that we are desiring. The period of March, the Unplanned Capacity Loss Factor [UCLF] – the rate at which we are losing these units, the rate at which these units are not efficient – is coming down.
“The baseline of May [2023], we were sitting at about 18 000MW, we are bringing it down. The average of the week from the 8 to 12 April [2024], we were sitting at about 13 900MW. The week after, again at 14 000MW. Today, we are still at about 13 000MW. We want to maintain that…even bring it sub-13 000MW but it’s a function of a steady, orchestrated and deliberate effort on the part of Eskom,” he said.
The Minister emphasised that although the improvements are commendable, focus is still firmly on the work that still needs to be done.
“We are keeping focus on the bouncing ball, the resolution of load shedding. I must emphasise that in the nature of this space, you are likely to have setbacks. We are still working on the reliability of these machines and that’s why you can’t speak with great confidence that load shedding is behind us.
“We are making the kind of progress that, in many instances, far exceeds where we thought we will be, but we are not yet where we want to be,” he said.
Renewable energy
Minister Ramokgopa highlighted that the Energy Action Plan is also beginning to bear fruit which is exemplified in the contribution of renewable energy projects.
“We are seeing exceptional performance of renewables. As a result of the reforms that the state has introduced...the contribution of renewables is on the back of state incentives. It's part of that orchestrated plan. If you go to the Energy Action Plan, outcome number four stated explicitly that part of this Energy Action Plan is to ensure that we accelerate the rollout of roof top solar solutions for both households and industries.
“When we are out of this load shedding situation, we will still encourage people to rollout rooftop solar solutions because we want to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and we want to ensure that households, small and large industries contribute to this green transition we have committed to,” he said.
Prospective view
The Minister said the prospects in the immediate future look bright with several generating units coming back online over the next coming months.
“We are on track to recover Unit 4 of Medupi [Power Station] and that will be coming on stream in September of this year. We are on track to ensure that we return – as part of the extension of the life of our only nuclear power station – Koeberg Unit 2…we are confident that we will return it in September 2024. We are confident of synchronising Kusile [Power Station] Unit 6 in October of this year.
“In the next six months, we are going to get an additional 2580MW just on the Eskom fleet. We will continue to ensure that we sustain these efforts of improved performance,” Ramokgopa said. – SAnews.gov.za
NeoB
Mon, 04/22/2024 - 11:38
161 views
Shelters for homeless families a rarity
The Somerset West Family Shelter is one of few in the country
Sec: A culinary revolution unveiled at Clico Boutique Hotel in Rosebank
Rosebank, South Africa: April 15, 2024 – South Africa’s culinary landscape is about to witness a seismic shift with the grand opening of Sec, a groundbreaking restaurant nestled within the sophisticated confines of Clico Boutique Hotel. Conceived by the visionary Chef Dario de Angeli, renowned for his innovative culinary approach, Sec promises to redefine dining …
Palette Unleashed: The Vibrant World of Chalk Paint Colours
Dive into the world of chalk paint colours, where each hue offers an opportunity to transform furniture, walls, and even fabric into a statement piece. Whether you’re looking for a soothing ambiance or a vibrant pop of colour, there’s a shade for every project and style. Blue Chalk Paint: Envision serene skies and calming oceans, …
Witness says camera footage shows Cape Town lawyer damaged neighbour’s car
Gary Trappler accused by neighbour of race attack
Sasol makes the world CO2 emissions blacklist
The company is among 57 companies in the world responsible for 80% of carbon dioxide emissions
Johannesburg precinct sets standards for sustainability
As South Africa migrates to an off-grid economy, one mixed-use precinct is leading the way with its sustainability prowess. Melrose Arch (www.MelroseArch.co.za/) has a thriving waste separating facility, underground cooling plant, gardens and rooftop solar system, providing its hotels, businesses and residential properties with an unparalleled experience.
After blasting and bulk earthworks commenced in the year 1998, Melrose Arch opened with a limited upmarket facility, with phase 1 consisting of only 11 buildings in 2001. It was constructed on a super basement that connects all areas of the precinct and remains the only one of this kind in the country. Parking cars in the basement reduces traffic congestion, and assists in reducing ambient air pollution above ground. Therefore, walking on street level is safe and pleasurable.
Renowned for its upmarket appeal and European street style aesthetic, Melrose Arch's streets are lined with greenery. The precinct has over 700 trees planted within its border, as well as five internal garden spaces creating green lungs for residents and tenants to enjoy.
Melrose Arch has since expanded to house 106 000m² office space, 39 000m² retail space, 17 000m² hotel space, 29 000m² of residential and conferencing space, and 8600m² accommodating health clubs. The integration of sustainability operations has expanded parallel to the 199 600m², with the result of seamless integration.
Eco Centre, Waste Separating Facility
Melrose Arch's waste separating facility, that operates 24/7 separates paper, cardboard, metals, plastics and glass, and sends these for recycling. At the property's approximately 30 restaurants, cafés and bars on the precinct, food waste is separated at source i.e., in the restaurant kitchens.
The food waste recycling works by implementing efficient waste separation methods and commitment, allowing each restaurant to divert food waste from traditional waste streams. By separating the food waste at source, restaurants assist in thorough recycling and processing, transforming waste into valuable resources such as compost.
The food waste is taken offsite and directly to the Urban Farms Recycling Centre, where it is converted into organic fertiliser. This organisation's vermiculture facility in Modderfontein is the largest of its kind in South Africa. After the majority of the waste is recycled, the balance goes to a landfill, where the eco center aims to minimise the amount each day.
In February 2024, of the 92.578 tons of waste collected across the precinct, 88% was recycled. A total of 77,303.58m³ CO2, 712,447.19L of water and 312,494.50 kWh energy was saved. Additionally, the eco center creates employment and enhances community participation in climate-relevant mitigation and adaptation measures.
Melrose Arch Cooling Plant
The provision of efficient indoor climate and comfort, particularly in the offices and commercial buildings, has been prioritised since the inception of Melrose Arch's development. The precinct boasts its own 1,471m² district underground cooling plant, that operates 24/7. This remarkable facility includes 8 chillers that are 2722.94kW in size, 12 cooling towers and 5 building water pumps.
Operated by a Building Management System, the plant is energy efficient. The cooling is centrally produced and distributes cold water to each building through a closed distribution network. Environmentally-friendly and economically savvy, this center helps to regulate the temperature inside buildings across the entire precinct.
The cooling plant's machinery and equipment have a nameplate capacity of 4,324.74KW, but for safety, are never operated at full capacity. The kVA demand for the plant during the summer months is set at 8.5kVA, which means that the plant regulates itself depending on demand, but it will limit itself to 8.5kVA. The average monthly kWh consumption for the plant is 494,914.08kWh.
Intricate Solar System
The Melrose Arch precinct's rooftop solar system is intricately accommodated across 16 different roof surfaces, and every building under the precinct's joint venture agreement that can host solar panels does. Currently featuring 7,811 solar panels and multiple inverters, generating approximately 3.2MW of clean energy annually, the grid-tied system integrates with multiple generators during load-shedding.
Some of the commercial operators on the property such as the Johannesburg Marriott Hotel, Melrose Arch operate their own solar systems, providing further sustainability. “We are committed to a target of 30% renewable energy across all of our properties by 2025, and becoming net zero for carbon emissions by 2050,” said Richard Collins, Area Vice President: Sub-Saharan Africa, Marriot International.
Melrose Arch is investigating the expansion of its current solar capacity, looking to increase its clean energy supply by a further 3MW per annum. Melrose Arch is also investigating a battery plant solution, tied into its own grid, to be powered by the solar plant, which will provide the precinct with up to 4 hours of standby energy in the event of outages.
Back up water
Melrose Arch has two sources of underground water. Through its water treatment plant, water is filtered and cleansed before being converted to potable water. This water is channeled to Melrose Arch's standby tanks, which are in place to enable the precinct to continue to enjoy water when there are interruptions to the local supply.
This system keeps the precinct's gardens green throughout the year and ensures that less water is wasted. Last year alone, the precinct saved 3,500,000 litres of water in this way. Furthermore, Melrose Arch/the precinct has a water back-up system with sufficient supply to keep operations flowing for up to 72 hours at any given time.
“Melrose Arch's prominence in the commercial and residential sector is underpinned by its robust operational sustainability integration that includes solar power, waste separation, a cooling plant, water backup and more,” says Reiner Henschel, Operations Director at Melrose Arch. “However, our commitment doesn't end there. We are resolute in continually integrating sustainability into our operations, ensuring that the precinct maintains its position as a leader in environmental responsibility in South Africa,” he concluded.
For further details on Melrose Arch, visit https://MelroseArch.co.za/
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Melrose Arch.
Elections 2024: What the independent candidates have to say
We put five questions to each of the five independent candidates
Telkom Netball League 2024: Unveiling the Future Stars of South African Netball
The stage is set, and the players are ready, as the highly anticipated 2024 Telkom Netball League (TNL) gears up for its grand kick-off at the Ellis Park Arena in Johannesburg. With its inaugural power week from 26 April – 5 May 2024, followed by a series of electrifying matches running through May and June, …
Apply for your ID this weekend
Apply for your ID this weekend
The Department of Home Affairs offices are now open on Saturdays from 8am to 1pm until 25 May 2024.
The department will provide several services, including the collection of identity documents (IDs), processing of new applications, and issuing temporary identity certificates.
The offices will also be resolving challenges pertaining to duplicates, amendments, rectifications and dead-alive cases with the required supporting documents.
In addition, mobile offices are also scheduled to return to deliver IDs in the remote areas where they took applications.
Local offices working with stakeholders such as councillors will communicate the dates, times and venues of those visits.
The department has also introduced a Branch Appointment Booking System (BABS), which allows clients to book appointments to collect their smart ID cards and green barcoded ID books before visiting offices.
BABS can be accessed on the department’s website, www.dha.gov.za.
However, clients have the option to visit the offices without prior booking.
“We invite people who have applied for their IDs, particularly young people who are first-time applicants, to come to our offices to collect their documents. This initiative gives people more options to collect their enabling documents,” said Deputy Minister Njabulo Nzuza.
He also encouraged clients who have applied for IDs and have received their SMS notifications to seize this opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect their documents.
Doors will be closed on 27 April 2024, as it will be a public holiday. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Fri, 04/12/2024 - 10:55
415 views
Only The Imax Screen Is Big Enough For Big Ghosts, Bigger Apes, Epic Falls, Civil War, And A Renegade Warrior
Catch all these blockbusters at Ster-Kinekor’s IMAX cinemas for an immersive cinema experience There’s nothing that beats watching a blockbuster movie in the cinema… except if you’re watching it on the biggest screen for a fully immersive sound and picture movie experience. With nine state-of-the-art IMAX cinemas at select sites around the country, Ster-Kinekor has …
Alexkor vs Creecy in environment court battle
The state mining company is challenging an environmental compliance notice
Trailer Manufacturer Powering Ahead with Solar
Solar power supplied 67% of all electricity used in February this year at three of leading South African truck body and trailer building company, Serco’s factories and offices in South Africa. And Serco’s goal is to push that figure up to 75% following further investment to raise the ratio even higher in the medium to …
Nespresso to invest 20 million USD in DRC to support the coffee growing community and the revival of the specialty coffee
Johannesburg, South Africa, April 2024: Nespresso aims to continue to support the local community and economy by investing 20 million USD spent across coffee purchases, price premiums and technical assistance, by 2026 in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), helping to give coffee farmers access to the global markets. The ambition is also to help …
Explore the Diverse Palette of Chalk Paint Hues
Chalk paint has taken the world of home decor and DIY enthusiasts by storm in recent years, and it’s easy to see why. Its versatile and easy-to-use nature has made it a favourite among those looking to revamp their furniture, home accessories, and even walls. One of the most exciting aspects of chalk paint is …
Westown Supports Community Activities Through Event Sponsorship
April 2024, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal: Westown, the new city of the west in Shongweni KwaZulu-Natal, has entrenched its support of the local equestrian community, through the sponsorship of the 2024 edition of the Westown South African Youth Championships, taking place at the Shongweni Club from 28 June to 4 July 2024. The event will see over …
Progress on Lower uMkhomazi Bulk Water Supply Scheme construction
Progress on Lower uMkhomazi Bulk Water Supply Scheme construction
Water and Sanitation Minister, Senzo Mchunu, has commended progress in the implementation of the Lower uMkhomazi Water Scheme project, which will augment raw water availability and meet water supply demand in the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast.
The uMkhomazi Water Scheme Project, which is currently under construction, will meet water supply demand for approximately 50 000 households in the South Coast within the eThekwini and Ugu District Municipalities.
The Lower uMkhomazi Bulk Water Supply, which is situated in the eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality (Ward 99) and uMdoni Local Municipality (Ward 18), worth more than R20 billion, with Umngeni-Uthukela Water as the implementing agent.
The project includes the construction of a new dam with a wall height within uMkhomazi River. The associated infrastructure will also include a 32km raw water conveyance tunnel and a 5km pipeline to uMlaza River.
There will also be a balancing dam and a water treatment works in the uMlaza River with a gravity pipeline to the Umgeni Water Supply System which supplies water to more than five million people and industries in the province.
This includes eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality, uMgungundlovu and Harry Gwala District Municipalities.
Mchunu and Deputy Ministers, David Mahlobo and Judith Tshabalala, together with eThekwini and Ugu Districts Mayors and traditional leaders, including Inkosi Bele and Inkosi Mcadi, conducted a site inspection visit at Phase 1 of the project in Goodenough Abstraction point and pumping systems on Saturday. Phase 1 of the project is currently at 46% progress.
Mchunu expressed his gratitude for the advancements made on the project, which is expected to be completed in December 2027.
He said the department is confident that the project will meet water supply demands in the South Coast areas, even in the near future.
“We are pleased with the progress made by the contractor’s determination and the capacity which is demonstrated by being ahead with about 6% of the expected schedule. This project will augment water in the South Coast areas that have been experiencing water supply challenges for a long time,” Mchunu said.
The project, which has previously been plagued by delays, has finally taken off following Mchunu’s intervention.
The project is divided into two phases with the first phase consisting of raw water component comprising two independent systems, namely Ngwadini system, with off-channel storage; and the Goodenough system, with abstraction works and a raw water storage reservoir.
Phase 2 entails a potable water component, comprising 100ml per day Water Treatment Works; 3.5km gravity main pipeline to Quarry Reservoir; extension of Quarry Reservoir to 30ml capacity; and the construction of a Green Star Administration Building.
The Lower uMkhomazi Water Scheme project is part of the uMkhomazi Water Project consists of the construction of an 81m high dam at Smithfield on the uMkhomazi River, with gross storage capacity of 251 million cubic metre (m3), a 33km tunnel from Smithfield Dam to uMlaza River Valley, and a 5.1km, with a 2.6m diameter gravity, bulk pipeline connecting the tunnel to the Baynesfield Water Treatment Works (WTW).
This part of the project will be funded and implemented by the department’s entity, Trans Caledon Water Authority (TCTA).
The Umkhomazi Water Project will result in a 55% increase in the amount of available water in the uMngeni Water Supply System.
The Umgeni Water Supply System augmentation from the uMkhomazi Water Catchment is expected to increase fresh water supply from 394 million cubic metres a year to 608 million cubic metres a year. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 11:10
184 views
DWS commends water entity for outstanding service delivery
DWS commends water entity for outstanding service delivery
Water and Sanitation Deputy Minister David Mahlobo has applauded Siza Water, a water service provider in the iLembe District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, for outstanding provision of water services in the district for the past 25 years.
Mahlobo was speaking during the anniversary celebration of the South African Water Works (SAWW) company, Siza Water, which took place on Friday in Zimbali.
“I cannot understate the significance of Siza Water's commitment to local empowerment and transformation.
“As a 100% South African-owned water utility, with the majority shareholder, South African Water Works, which is also majority black-owned, Siza Water embodies the spirit of inclusivity and socio-economic development.
“Proudly managed by South Africans, particularly from previously disadvantaged groups, Siza Water has become a beacon of hope, demonstrating that diversity is not just a buzzword but a cornerstone of sustainable growth and prosperity,” said Mahlobo.
Mahlobo lauded the achievements of the water utility received over the years, such as being recognised as the Best Performing Water Service Provider in 2014 through the Department of Water and Sanitation’s Blue Drop Certification Programme, to receiving the prestigious Wilson Award of Excellence from the Water Institute of South Africa between 2010 and 2018, amongst others.
Mahlobo said Siza Water has consistently raised the bar for operational efficiency, environmental stewardship and service delivery.
“Siza Water's innovative approach to wastewater management, exemplified by the design, construction, and operation of a state-of-the-art direct reuse plant, underscores its dedication to sustainability and resource conservation,” he said.
With two Green Drop Awards and commendations from the Department of Water and Sanitation for its exemplary sewer systems management, Siza Water has set a benchmark for environmental responsibility and public health protection.
Mahlobo said beyond the realm of awards and accolades, Siza Water's impact extends far and wide, touching the lives of communities and individuals across South Africa.
“We have experienced this through the strategic investments exceeding R725 million over the past 25 years. Siza Water has not only facilitated uninterrupted development but also created hundreds of job opportunities, empowering local communities and driving socio-economic progress,” he said.
Mahlobo reaffirmed the water sector’s commitment for collaboration, innovation and sustainability, with emphasis placed on collaborative work, leveraging on collective expertise and resources to address the challenges of water scarcity, climate change, and social inequality. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Sun, 04/07/2024 - 14:03
452 views
Globeleq to build Africa’s largest standalone battery energy storage system in South Africa
UK company Globeleq, the leading independent power company in Africa, today announced that its Red Sands project in the Northern Cape has been awarded Preferred Bidder status in South Africa's Energy Storage Capacity Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (ESIPPPP). Globeleq is majority-owned by British International Investment (BII), the Development Finance Institution of the UK Government.
Battery storage is an essential enabler of renewable-energy generation, and the market for these systems is growing rapidly in South Africa and worldwide as a means of resolving energy crises and tackling climate change. These systems provide reliable power supply on demand, even when the energy grid is unstable, overcoming the challenges of intermittent wind and solar sources. They store energy at times of excess generation so that it can be released into the grid when generation falls short of demand, helping to mitigate the need for load-shedding.
Experts say that widespread energy storage is vital to expanding the reach of renewables and speeding the transition to a carbon-free power grid - this is key to helping reduce South Africa's reliance on fossil fuels as it seeks to transition to clean energy. This R5.7 billion (US$300 million) investment therefore represents a flagship project financed by the UK as part of its commitment under the Just Energy Transition Partnership agreed at COP26.
The Red Sands project is in the Northern Cape, about 100km southeast of Upington, and was originally developed by African Green Ventures, a South African renewable project development company owned by Norwegian based energy firm Magnora ASA. The project will cover approximately 5 hectares (12 acres) and will connect to the grid through the Eskom Garona substation. The substation will be upgraded by the Red Sands project to ensure that full network support capabilities of the project's batteries can be utilised.
Working closely with leading global battery and balance-of-plant suppliers, Globeleq estimates that the project will require an investment of approximately US$300 million and will take 24 months to construct after financial close, which is expected in 2024.
Globeleq is the largest independent power produce in Africa, providing nearly 1,800 MW of energy in South Africa, Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania, Cote d'Ivoire, Egypt and Cameroon. Globeleq is a UK company based in London and backed entirely with Official Development Assistance (UK aid).
Red Sands will be Globeleq's first Battery Energy Storage Solutions (BESS) project in South Africa but the Group owns and operates a combined solar and BESS plant at Cuamba in Mozambique, and is developing BESS projects across the African continent. Globeleq also owns and operates 8 renewable plants (6 solar PV, 2 wind) in South Africa with a total generating capacity of 384 MW.
Mike Scholey, Globeleq's CEO commented:
"I am delighted that we have received Preferred Bidder status for this very important project, and I look forward to working with the government and our partners to take Red Sands to financial close and into operations. Electricity storage is going to be key not only in helping South Africa meet its considerable industrial and domestic demand for energy but also across Africa as more renewable energy projects benefit from the advances our industry has made with BESS technology."
British High Commissioner to South Africa, Antony Phillipson said:
"This is a significant investment in South Africa's future. The UK is proud to play such a vital role in helping to tackle the energy crisis with new technology that will bring power supply stability and most importantly support South Africa's ambition to reduce carbon emissions."
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of British High Commission Pretoria.
Home Affairs offices to open Saturdays
Home Affairs offices to open Saturdays
The Department of Home Affairs is set to open its offices for five hours a day on Saturdays from 06 April to 25 May 2024, excluding the 27 April 2024 public holiday, for ID collection services.
This also includes facilitation of new applications and issuance of Temporary Identity Certificates.
According to the department, the offices will also be resolving challenges pertaining to duplicates, amendments, rectifications, and dead-alive cases with the required supporting documents.
The offices will open from 8 am to 1 pm.
Mobile offices are also scheduled to return to deliver IDs in the remote areas where they took applications from.
“Local offices, working with stakeholders that include councillors, will communicate the dates, times and venues of those visits. Mobile offices will be used to support the identified local offices.
“In addition, clients can now book appointments to collect their Smart ID Cards and Green barcoded ID books before visiting offices by using the Branch Appointment Booking System which is available on the Department of Home Affairs website- www.dha.gov.za,” said the department on Thursday.
Alternatively, clients can simply visit Home Affairs offices without making a booking.
“We invite people who have applied for their IDs, particularly young people who are first time applicants, to come to our offices to collect their documents. This initiative gives people more options to collect their enabling documents,” said Deputy Minister, Njabulo Nzuza.
The department has encouraged clients who have applied for identification documents and have received their SMS notifications, to seize the opportunity by visiting their Home Affairs office to collect these critical documents. -SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Fri, 04/05/2024 - 09:31
619 views
Century HomeShow 2024: Redefining Luxury Living at Helderfontein Residential Estate
[Helderfontein, JHB, Gauteng, 02 April 2024] – Century Property Developments proudly announces the Century HomeShow 2024, an exclusive event poised to redefine the standards of luxury living within the award-winning Helderfontein Residential Estate. Scheduled across two weekends on 18 & 19 May and 25 & 26 May 2024, visitors at Century HomeShow, can look forward …
Cultivating the market for green flooring solutions
Mathe Group’s Hammarsdale facility, which recycles approximately 1 000 radial truck tyres per day to produce 45 tons of rubber crumb, is a pivotal export hub. Although many of its products are distributed internationally, the innovative rubber flooring solutions which helped establish this growing company in the first place, continue to highlight its global reach …