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Lives will improve in Ekurhuleni, vows government

Location: News

Lives will improve in Ekurhuleni, vows government

Government is committed to improving the lives of residents of the City of Ekurhuleni Municipality through interventions including “expanded support for small businesses and intensified efforts to spare communities from crime”.

Other interventions will be in security of tenure for people living and working on farms, and much needed repairs to major roadways that serve as economic arteries to the municipality.

On Friday, President Cyril Ramaphosa led a District Development Model Presidential Imbizo in the municipality.

READ | Strong municipalities needed to grow economy

The Presidential Imbizo was a platform for communities to interact and share their challenges with government leaders from all three spheres of government on service delivery challenges, and for the executive to respond to the community on what they are doing to resolve those issues.

“During this interaction, Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Ekurhuleni Executive Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza and other leaders outlined efforts address these matters and to improve economic prospects more broadly in the district,” the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS) said in a statement.

Water and electricity

After the community expressed their challenges, particularly those related to water, Xhakaza assured them that the city’s Water and Sanitation Department was working tirelessly to deliver services.

A new water pump station is in the pipeline for the area.

“The department has been allocated R590 million in 2024/25 for key projects including R30 million for a new 30Ml reservoir in Germiston; R15 million for the construction of a new sewer pipeline at Pomona and R10 million for a new water pipeline in Nigel.

“To mitigate the challenge the city power cuts and load reduction the City has undertaken to install backup generators at 21 water supply infrastructure sites such as reservoirs and pump stations. Some sites where the backup generators installed include Sunward Park, Tsakane and Germiston reservoirs,” the statement read.

Housing and employment

During the Imbizo, it was revealed that land claims totalling some R53 million are being fast tracked while housing is also getting attention.

It was revealed that the city, the provincial and national governments have partnered to under mega hosing projects which are at “various stages of pre-planning and construction”.

“The City has provided hundreds of serviced sites or stands that feature permanent infrastructure such as water, electricity and sanitation and are ready for top structures for integrated human settlements, and the development of transport services.

“Ekurhuleni is implementing a range of housing projects and related infrastructure totalling just under half a billion rand at Brakpan Old Location, Esselen Park, John Dube, Helderwyk, Birchleigh, Leeuwpoort, Daggafontein and Palm Ridge.

“Other actions under way and in the pipeline in the district include public employment projects such as the Vala Zonke pothole repair initiative; the opening in the coming weeks of a shared facility that will bring together small businesses under one roof; the revival of dormant industrial parks, and the provision of solar panels to needy residents in an initiative that has the potential to create 30 000 jobs,” the GCIS said.

Pre-Imbizo

Ahead of the Imbizo, leaders from all three spheres of government embarked on oversight visits to Ekurhuleni.

“Minister of Transport, Barbara Creecy paid an oversight visit to the rehabilitation work construction crews are performing on 14km of the R21 freeway. 

“Minister of Land Reform and Rural Development, Mzwanele Nyhontsho presented title deeds to land tenure beneficiaries who now have security on land bought by government at a cost of R12 million,” the GCIS said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Sun, 08/25/2024 - 12:42

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Enriching lives: A Guiding Principle

Location: News
MultiChoice Group

By Fhulu Badugela, CEO of Multichoice Africa (www.MultiChoice.com)

As MultiChoice published its annual ESG report earlier this month, I was struck by the aptness of the term sometimes used in relation to such documents: integrated reporting. Integration is fundamental to any kind of environmental, social and governance (ESG) impact. 

MultiChoice Group has had three decades to find that particular sweet spot, refining its formula of enriching lives, while transforming African entertainment and broader society. 

The beauty of the approach can be seen in the way key business touchpoints dovetail with ESG principles. 

By way of illustration, the MultiChoice commitment to hyperlocal storytelling has meant a need to create homegrown, locally relevant content. This in turn has led MultiChoice to create regional MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) academies in Nairobi, Lagos and Lusaka, training aspiring filmmakers.  

Not only has this created a rich pipeline of authentic talent, it has built a vast library of local content. This fuels the ongoing success of MultiChoice as an entertainment platform, where Africa's people can see African creators telling African stories. 

Social upliftment 
In ESG parlance, this supports the social-development pillar. To date, 467 filmmakers have been trained by the MTF. These young people have gone on to work on hit African shows on regional channels across the continent.  

In East Africa, graduates secured story development grants, gained acclaim at international film festivals and showcased their commitment to environmental consciousness by presenting at the Youth and Climate Action meeting. 

In West Africa, Azeezah Sama, produced by a student from the class of 2023, was selected for prestigious film festivals such as the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival. Africa Magic commissioned productions from three MTF alumni companies, generating employment opportunities and amplifying the programme's impact in the region. 

Meanwhile, in Southern Africa, MTF alumni feature films have premiered on Zambezi Magic, and interns have contributed to more than 30 professional productions, including hit shows like Idols, Adulting, My Brother's Keeper, Champions, and Gen Zee. 

Economic impact 
Besides skills development, MultiChoice makes direct investments in job creation and economic empowerment for emerging economic sectors. The MultiChoice Enterprise Development Trust oversees two key initiatives aimed at fostering the growth of startups and small enterprises: the Innovation Fund and the Africa Accelerator programme. 
 
To date, the MultiChoice Innovation Fund has supported 77 black-owned small businesses with at least 50% female-black ownership and disbursed R407 million in loans, grants and business development expenses. This has created 1 400 employment opportunities.  

Last year, the MultiChoice Accelerator programme helped 11 entrepreneurs from South Africa to secure more than $17 million in investments from investors in the United Arab Emirates. 

Also last year, the Enterprise Development Fund funded four new tech-related companies, including two owned by black women, to the tune of R26.74 million, creating 395 jobs. 

Developmental governance 
Integrated ESG principles mean that the crucial MultiChoice governance function must also have a developmental role, while still enabling the business generate value for all stakeholders.  

That means ethical, developmental governance. The Group inculcates these principles in our people through mandatory training – anti-bribery, ethical conduct; and “better place to work” training on the MultiChoice Academy platform. 

Another of the company's biggest governance focus areas is the fight against content piracy, which poses a significant threat to the business and the wider industry. With Partners Against Piracy (PAP), MultiChoice has signed Memorandums of Understanding with governments across Africa to combat broadcasting piracy.  

The MOUs establish partnerships for capacity building, benchmarking, and experience sharing, as well as intellectual-property rights protection, training, and skills development. In addition, a multi-governmental workshop in mid-2024 will review piracy policies and actions, with an eye to amending cybercrime legislation. 

Environmental awareness 
Deeply conscious of how our operations impact the environment, MultiChoice takes direct steps to limit our emissions and energy efficiency – but always in ways that can be integrated into our ways of doing business.  

We have taken proactive steps to enhance energy efficiency in our electricity consumption, air-conditioning systems, data centres, heating and ventilation. We have invested in green infrastructure, including installing light motion sensors within buildings, LEDs equipped with daylight harvesting capabilities, solar panels and energy-efficient inverter technology.  

These initiatives have seen us reduce total Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions to 67 675 tonnes of CO2 equivalent from 75 060 tonnes in 2023, a tangible move towards sustainability and responsible resource management through more eco-friendly operations. 

We have managed to make these sustainability improvements in ways that continue to generate income for the group. The R10,7 billion we pay in taxes in 2024 underlines our integration into the continent's economy.  

Ultimately, the proof of our ESG impact will be in our ability to continue operating sustainably, into the future, in a way that enriches lives for all the people we touch.  

We are proud to have met this challenge successfully for the past three decades, and we are confident we will continue doing so for decades to come, by integrating our purpose – enriching lives – into our way of doing business. 

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of MultiChoice Group.

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Transfer seals the deal for new ownership of The Neighbourhood Square Shopping Centre

Location: MyPR

22 July, Johannesburg. The Neighbourhood Square premier convenience shopping centre in Linksfield, Johannesburg, has transferred into the hands of its new owners Flanagan & Gerard Property Group and Burstone Group (JSE: BTN). Burstone Group partnered with retail real estate specialist Flanagan & Gerard to acquire the strategic retail asset, with each owner holding a 50% …

Read moreTransfer seals the deal for new ownership of The Neighbourhood Square Shopping Centre

South Africa’s ‘renewable energy revolution’ a tantalising prospect

Location: News

South Africa's 'renewable energy revolution' a tantalising prospect

President Cyril Ramaphosa has touted South Africa’s “renewable energy revolution” as one that will foster “significant growth and job creation in the next decade and beyond”.

The President was delivering the Opening of Parliament Address (OPA) at the Cape Town City Hall on Thursday evening.

South Africa bears a climatic advantage which allows the country to draw energy from, among others, the sun and the wind. Added to that, the country boasts the critical presence of rare earth minerals needed for renewable energy technologies.

“As we undertake a just transition towards renewable energy, South Africa must create a green manufacturing sector centred on the export of green hydrogen and associated products, electric vehicles and renewable energy components.

“We have seen, for example, how the Northern Cape has already attracted billions of Rands of investment in renewable energy projects. South Africa is undergoing a renewable energy revolution that is expected to be the most significant driver of growth and job creation in the next decade and beyond,” the President said.

Government has also worked hard to open the door to renewable energy independent power producers to take up projects to not only strengthen the grid but create employment opportunities as well.

“We already have a huge pipeline of renewable energy projects, representing over 22 500 MW of new generating capacity, estimated to be worth around R400 billion in new private investment. Investments such as these will create many jobs.

“Just this week, we saw the largest-ever private energy project connect to the grid near Lichtenburg in the North West, with over 390 000 solar panels that will add 256 MW to the grid. 

“We will see more of these projects taking shape across our country in the months and years to come. As these investments reach fruition more jobs will be created,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:41

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EcoFlow Announces Winter Sale in South Africa

Location: Business
EcoFlow

EcoFlow (www.EcoFlow.com/za) is pleased to announce its Annual Winter Sale, running from 15th July to 19th August. This year's sale features exclusive promotions on top-tier products, specially curated for those looking to prepare for energy interruption and the rising energy cost for a warm and load-shedding-free winter season.

The sale includes a wide array of products ranging from the best-selling portable power stations to the newly launched Alternator Charger. These deals include but are not limited to –

  1. DELTA 2 + 220W Bifacial Portable Solar Panels (https://apo-opa.co/4cVKTjY)

This dynamic duo, priced at R19,999 with a 32% discount, is perfect for providing whole-home backup power during winter load-shedding. The DELTA 2's powerful capacity combined with the efficiency of the 220W bifacial solar panels makes for an unbeatable combination.

  1. RIVER 2 Max + 160W Bifacial Portable Solar Panel (https://apo-opa.co/3S6JChX)

For those seeking more versatile power solutions, this combo offers reliable performance and on-the-go power convenience. The RIVER 2 Max weighs only 6.1kg and is an ideal energy partner for users who fancy a winter outdoor escapade. The 160W Bifacial Portable Solar Panel ensures the RIVER 2 Max stays powered up and ready, wherever you are. This combo is available at R8,999 with a 40% discount during the winter sale.

  1. DELTA 2 Max + 800W Alternator Charger (https://apo-opa.co/3S5kgBf)

The newly launched 800W Alternator Charger is a 3-in-1 charger, jump starter and battery maintainer. With demand for accessible energy and off-grid comfort across the RV, overlanding and van life communities, there is a need for unrestricted access to electricity that isn't dependent on fixed power locations or gas generators. The charger offers an exceptionally convenient and effective solution. During the winter sale, consumers can purchase the DELTA 2 Max along with the 800W Alternator Charger and receive an additional 220W solar panel at no extra cost.

EcoFlow is committed to delivering simple, flexible and reliable eco-friendly energy solutions. In face of rising energy costs and increased energy needs during winter, the seasonal sale provides a wonderful opportunity for people to integrate solar energy systems into their daily energy consumption routine.

The EcoFlow Annual Winter Sale kicks off on 15th July and runs until 19th August. Visit the EcoFlow South Africa website store (https://apo-opa.co/4cWYR5a) for more unbeatable savings and product details. For more information, please visit: https://za.EcoFlow.com/

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EcoFlow.

Media Contact:
Haochen Zhang
haochen.zhang@ecoflow.com

About EcoFlow:
EcoFlow is a leading eco-friendly energy solutions company with the vision to power a new world. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow aims to become a reliable and trusted energy companion for individuals and families across the world, providing accessible and renewable power solutions at home, outdoors, and in mobile spaces. Today, with operational headquarters located in the USA, Germany, and Japan, EcoFlow has empowered more than 3 million users in over 100 markets worldwide. For more information, visit: https://www.EcoFlow.com/au

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Incentives for municipalities owing water bills

Location: News

Incentives for municipalities owing water bills

In a bid to address the water debt owed by municipalities, the Department of Water and Sanitation, including water boards, have strengthened and standardised debt collection processes and put in place incentives for municipalities to pay their water board bills.

Presenting the Water and Sanitation Budget Vote on Friday, Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina said the municipal debts to the water boards increased to R21.3 billion by May 2024, posing a major risk to the financial sustainability of the whole water sector.

Majodina said this debt has forced the department to close down the Sedibeng Water Board in 2022 and transfer its functions, including assets and liabilities, to the Vaal Central and Magalies Water Boards.

“The debts owed by municipalities to Sedibeng Water had resulted in it no longer being able to service its own debts and to meet its operational expenditure requirements. However, the transfer of Sedibeng’s operations to the Vaal Central and Magalies Water Boards did not solve the underlying debt problem and the municipal debt continues to grow,” Majodina said.

While non-payment by municipalities poses a threat to the financial sustainability of all the water boards, Majodima said the department is particularly concerned about Magalies Water and Vaal Central Water, which are experiencing an increasing cash flow challenges due to non-payment.

“One of our immediate priorities will therefore be to work with our colleagues in Cabinet, particularly the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, to find a sustainable solution to this problem,” Majodina said.  

While acknowledging that not all municipalities are falling behind on their payments, Majodima warned that non-payment by a few municipalities which are served by a particular water board can result in severe financial difficulties for that water board.

During the 2023/24 financial year, the National Government allocated R61.7 billion of water and sanitation-related grants to municipalities to enable the municipalities to address water and sanitation infrastructure backlogs and provide free basic water to the indigent.

Apart from these grants, the water services sector must be self-financing through revenues from the sale of water.

Available infrastructure for other economic activities

To ensure the department’s assets contribute towards the objectives of the Government of National Unity, Majodina said the department would be availing its infrastructure for other economic activities, including promoting tourism and recreation, and reducing the risk of load shedding through the use of dams for generation of hydropower.

The Minister noted that during the last financial year, the department issued an expression of interest to obtain access rights to state dams for tourism and recreation activities, with the aim of promoting economic development, particularly of communities adjacent to dams.

She said the expressions of interest received will be processed during the current financial year.

“In consultation with the Ministry of Energy and Electricity, the department has also issued requests for applications for interested parties to apply for water use authorisations to generate hydropower using water courses and the water resource infrastructure owned by the department.

“This process received interest from over 200 applicants, for generation of 2 845 Megawatts of electricity from the water courses. To date, the department has issued 40 authorisations for floating solar panels, and the remaining applications will be processed in the current financial year,” Majodina said. – SAnews.gov.za

GabiK
Fri, 07/12/2024 - 14:37

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6 Benefits of investing in a modern, newly built home

Location: MyPR

Property investment is often one of the biggest investments an individual will make in a lifetime, which means considering various factors. Location, cost, and access to amenities are some of the important factors determining a property investment – another is deciding between older homes and newly built ones. “Investing in older properties might be an …

Read more6 Benefits of investing in a modern, newly built home

Enhance Your Home with Reliable Power Solutions

Location: MyPR

Creating a reliable power setup at home involves having the right components. At GeeWiz, you can find everything from solar panels to solar accessories to make your home more energy-efficient and resilient.   Simplify Shopping with Online Convenience Experience hassle-free online shopping at GeeWiz. Their user-friendly platform makes it easy to find and purchase the …

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30 years of democracy: The electrification of South African households

Location: News

30 years of democracy: The electrification of South African households

Despite a myriad of challenges – both present and past – along the way, the South African government through Eskom and municipalities has made great strides towards achieving universal access to electricity in the country.

This came out during a roundtable on the electrification programme since 1994 hosted by the Government Communication and Information System (GCIS).

According to the Eskom website, in 1987, fewer than 13 million people had access to electricity with the vast majority of that access servicing white households – leaving other population groups reeling in the dark.

At the dawn of democracy in 1994, Parliament endorsed a plan to create universal access to electricity – defined at some 97% due to population growth and challenges related to the formalisation of informal settlements.

This charged government’s wholesale plan to electrify homes. Now, access to electricity in South Africa today is at least 94% according to Statistics South Africa.

Director Project Monitoring and Intergovernmental Relations at the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy, Lufuno Madzhie, said the electrification programme has thus far, been a success.

“[During 1994 to 1998] Eskom and municipalities only electrified 2.5 million households. In 2001, then government decided this [electrification] programme needs to reside within the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy [DMRE]. Through us as the department, working with different stakeholders, we have achieved a lot with regard to this electrification programme.

“Through this programme, the department has achieved a huge milestone. Currently, we have electrified over 8.3 million households,” he said.

Eskom’s Pozisa Njezula emphasised how access to electricity improves the welfare of households and explained how Eskom contributes to facilitating access for hard-to-reach rural areas.

“[It allows for the] improving on safety where we no longer have to use candles and paraffin stoves. It improves on convenience where we no longer have to collect wood to cook and also, in terms of improving on education where kids can study at night.

“With…us now pushing towards universal access, the challenge that we are now faced with is that we now have to reach the far-flung areas. The far corners in all the rural areas. With the support from the DMRE, as Eskom we have started and embarked on the rolling out of micro grids for those far-flung areas where you may not be able to get grid electricity because of losses as well as the amount of money that you would have to spend to get to those areas.

“The [micro grid] is just a container, it has solar panels, it has got batteries and then you’ve got the reticulation network. When you get to a certain area, you electrify it off grid and those people benefit,” she said.

Challenges and solutions

Njezula bemoaned that although the electrification programme is going full steam ahead, the power utility faces serious and dangerous challenges when going into communities.

“We are not immune as Eskom to the crime [and] extortion in our project sites. In South Africa, with almost all the projects that are being undertaken, there’s reports of these extortions and these demands for certain amounts of money, for protection fees and so forth.

“That delays the progress in our projects, and it really puts the lives of our employees as well as our contractors in danger. In some instances, we have to leave site, we need to be escorted, we need protection,” she said.

Head of energy and electricity distribution at the South African Local Government Association, Nhlanhla Ngidi, described South Africa’s electrification plan as a “moving target”.

“In terms of access itself, at 94%, I think it’s very important that people understand because this is a moving target. In a year’s time, you could find this being below 94% and it’s because of all these challenges…people moving towards where the economy is more active.

“Municipalities have done quite well but with the capacity challenges we have, we still need municipalities to be assisted and government needs to put in place agencies that can come in and be catalysts in terms of the implementation of the programme,” he said.

Energy expert, Chris Yelland, agreed that access to electricity has improved but warned that affordability remains a blockage to some households.

“[There] are some technology developments that require that we look at these distant rural customers. The first thing of course is renewable energy. The price of renewable energy…has come down dramatically over the last ten years. This is now opening the doors to renewable energy for remote households that never existed ten years ago.

“There’s a lot to celebrate in electrification [but] there’s a lot to do about affordability. We are not there yet. We need to understand where we come from, where we are and where we’re going and for that we need data…so that we know where we are and where we’re going” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

 

NeoB
Tue, 05/14/2024 - 14:06

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Small pet foods business gets a power boost from the Shoprite Group

Location: MyPR

Small pet foods business gets a power boost from the Shoprite Group “Our business would not survive another 12 months with constant rolling blackouts. We had to find an alternative solution,” said Harvard-trained entrepreneur, Nhlanhla Dlamini, who founded Maneli Pets in 2016. The small, Johannesburg-based pet foods manufacturer uses refrigeration and dehydration machines that run …

Read moreSmall pet foods business gets a power boost from the Shoprite Group

Johannesburg precinct sets standards for sustainability

Location: News
Melrose Arch

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.

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Woman sentenced for R16m theft

Location: News

Woman sentenced for R16m theft

Lizette Marielle Steyn, 56, has been sentenced to at least 12 years imprisonment after being found guilty of 85 counts of theft.

The former Finance and Administration Manager of AgriCAD was sentenced in the Pretoria Specialised Commercial Crimes Court.

National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana explained that Steyn was arrested in July last year.

“Steyn was employed by AgriCAD [and her] responsibilities, amongst others, were to load the creditors for payment on the business bank account monthly and do the day-to-day bookkeeping and accounting. As such Steyn had full access to the AgriCAD ABSA bank accounts.

“During her employment, Steyn would change the details of one of the AgriCAD ABSA bank accounts and replace it with her six different personal Capitec accounts.

“From 27 October 2020 until 09 May 2023, 85 different payments of over R16 million for the company were paid into her personal bank accounts. With the funds, Steyn installed solar panels in her house and bought luxury items, a caravan, and a vehicle for her son-in-law. She also paid for her daughter’s wedding, and her family’s weekends away and holidays,” she said.

Mahanjana said Steyn pleaded guilty to charges against her and explained that she “stole the money to pay debts because her husband lost his job”.

The thief then asked the court to consider leniency upon sentencing due to her ill-health and the fact that she is a first time offender.

“However, the prosecutor, advocate Rachelle van der Walt, argued that as much as Steyn was a first-time offender, her offences were committed over three years. Furthermore, Steyn was in a position of trust, her employer trusted her, but she betrayed that trust and was not hesitant to hide her dishonest conduct.

“She opened Capitec accounts in her name which she used to receive the stolen money for luxurious items and extravagant lifestyles. Therefore, Adv van der Walt asked the court to consider long-term imprisonment when imposing the sentence.

While delivering the sentence, Magistrate Ignatius du Preez said Steyn was left with no option but to plead guilty.

“Her change of heart and acknowledgement of her criminal conduct originated from being caught and not from her true inner feelings of regret. Therefore, she had no choice but to concede defeat.

“Steyn committed the offence when she was at an age where it was expected of her to be able to distinguish between right from wrong, but she failed dismally. Furthermore, courts are increasingly faced with the situation where offenders with medical challenges commit serious offences, and such illness cannot be used as a license to commit crime,” du Preez said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Mon, 04/08/2024 - 10:25

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EcoFlow Launches PowerStream, Helping Home Stay Powered During Load Shedding

Location: Business
EcoFlow

EcoFlow (za.EcoFlow.com), a leading eco-friendly energy solutions company, has reached a new milestone with the launch of its latest innovation, the PowerStream (https://apo-opa.co/3Tiz7Jv), a mini home solar system that potentially helps users save on energy bills. This groundbreaking expandable system can also provide backup power when connected to a portable power station, making it a simple, flexible, and reliable energy source at home.

With over 2.5 million users worldwide, EcoFlow has established itself as a leader in the portable power industry. During load shedding last year, the EcoFlow portable power stations helped power over 50,000 families in South Africa. The PowerStream marks the company's expansion into the home solar energy solutions market, responding to the growing demand for sustainable and reliable energy solutions that households can depend on.

“Home solar energy solutions play an increasingly important role in an age of frequent energy crises, and that's what inspired the EcoFlow PowerStream,” said Bradley Chetty, Key Account Director at EcoFlow South Africa. “EcoFlow is committed to a future where everyone can care for their families and combat climate disasters, aging grids, and rising energy bills, and PowerStream is our first step towards that future."

Keep Home Powered During Load Shedding

The PowerStream is an expandable system that includes the EcoFlow PowerStream Microinverter, solar panels, and EcoFlow portable power stations if users want to store excessive energy generated through the system.

When incorporating portable power stations into the system, the stored energy can continue to power the home throughout the night, and provide users with peace of mind during load shedding by keeping the essential devices up and running - from heavy-duty appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators to low-wattage devices like phones and tablets.

With a maximum 800W solar input, the PowerStream generates around 1277kWh[1] of electricity annually, covering a great amount of electricity an average household consumes yearly. Using the EcoFlow app, users can keep track of the solar energy captured, and the estimated saving on energy costs, and get a clear picture of their home energy usage.

A Plug-and-Play System with High Compatibility

The PowerStream is designed for the users to install by themselves as the microinverter, solar panels and portable power stations are all plug-and-play. The solar panels also fit in different scenarios, including flat or house balconies, house gardens, and house Façades. Using the EcoFlow super-flat cables, users don't need to drill through walls or windows to connect the system outdoors to indoors.

The system is compatible with 99% of solar panels on the market and works with all EcoFlow portable power stations, including the DELTA Pro, if users want to store more surplus energy and save more on energy bills. With a base capacity of 3.6kWh and expandable up to 7.2kWh, the DELTA Pro provides reliable power for 99% of home appliances, making it one of the best companions for the PowerStream.

An Entry-level System for Every Home

The PowerStream is an ideal home solar system for beginners, especially if they have already been using solar panels and EcoFlow portable power stations at home. The PowerStream microinverter features a compact design and is lightweight. It can easily blend in users' houses or apartments.

Plus, when users look to enjoy outdoor activities, they can disconnect the portable power station and use it on the go. If moving to new apartments or houses, the entire system can be easily unplugged and packed to go.

Price and Availability

Currently available on the EcoFlow South Africa website (https://apo-opa.co/48AtQ4B), the PowerStream comes in different kits with an Early Bird discount till 31st March 2024.

The No-Storage Kit includes only the PowerStream microinverter, two EcoFlow 400W Rigid Solar Panels, one solar cable, and one EcoFlow AC cable. The kit is priced at R 14,999 for an Early Bird discount.

The 3-kWh Storage Kit includes the PowerStream microinverter with the EcoFlow solar cable and AC cable, an EcoFlow DELTA Pro portable power station with an EB cable and two EcoFlow 400W Rigid Solar Panels. The kit is currently priced at R 61,999 for an Early Bird discount.

To learn more about kits with different storage options, please visit: za.EcoFlow.com

Specs

EcoFlow PowerStream Microinverter

Weight

Approx. 3 Kg

Waterproof

IP67

Dimensions

242 × 169 × 33 mm

Max. Charging & Discharging Power

600W

PV Input Power

400W x 2

DC Input Output

600W

Max. Input Voltage

55Vd.c. (PV Port)/ 59Vd.c. (DC Port)

Max. Input Current

13A

AC Output-Grid Tied

600W

Max. AC Output Current

2.8A

Charging Voltage

30 – 58 Vd.c.

Communication

Wi-Fi & Bluetooth

[1] The amount of electricity generated by PowerStream a year is based on internal testing in Johannesburg. Actual user experiences may vary.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of EcoFlow.

About EcoFlow:
EcoFlow is a leading eco-friendly energy solutions company with the vision to power a new world. Since its founding in 2017, EcoFlow aims to become a reliable and trusted energy companion for individuals and families across the world, providing accessible and renewable power solutions at home, outdoors, and in mobile spaces. Today, with operational headquarters located in the USA, Germany, and Japan, EcoFlow has empowered more than 2.5 million users in over 100 markets worldwide.

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Ramokgopa sets sights on accelerated transmission line expansion

Location: News

Ramokgopa sets sights on accelerated transmission line expansion

Minister in the Presidency for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, says government is targeting to expedite the expansion of transmission lines to the Cape provinces in order to potentially unlock at least 2 335MW of energy in the short-term.

He was speaking during an engagement with business stakeholders in KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday.

Ramokgopa explained that there are renewable energy projects that are already producing electricity but the lack of transmission lines is hampering their ability to add to the ailing grid.

“In the short-term, we can unlock about 2 300MW of stranded electrons. That is the route that we are taking and as the Minister, I’ll be making the necessary announcement. We already know the corridors where we are going to get this 2 335MW. It’s in Upington, the Juno Gromis 400kV line and all that in the Nama transformer in Upington (sic).

“Once we make those interventions, we get an additional 2 300MW. We don’t have to wait for 10 years. It’s the interventions that we are making now but we need to design a bespoke financing solution to help us to address the issues of transmission,” he said.

In the longer-term, some 14 000km of new transmission lines are to be built in South Africa to connect renewable energy projects and further strengthen the grid.

Turning to demand side management, Ramokgopa said the appetite – from both private persons and business – for rooftop solar has grown exponentially since government announced tax incentives and financial support to those willing to invest.

He said connected rooftop installed capacity has grown from some 983MW in 2022 to 4 412MW by mid-2023.

“Our anticipation is that the rate of growth will exceed what we would have seen in the previous calendar year. Two things are an impediment to an aggressive rollout of roof top solar. Firstly, it’s the availability of equipment.

“South Africa, compared to many countries in the world, has had the biggest import of solar panels. We have had conversations with some of the biggest manufacturers across the globe – invariably from China – to localise production here. We are confident we are going to do that.

“The second impediment is the skills to install these solar panels. We will be recruiting about 25 000 people to be able to install. In every crisis, there is an opportunity and that opportunity must be taken. We are looking to industrialise and… we are looking to create these new skills so that we get people into jobs,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za

NeoB
Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:31

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SIU updates Parliament on NLC corruption investigation

Location: News

SIU updates Parliament on NLC corruption investigation

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has completed 90% of the second phase in its three-phased National Lotteries Commission (NLC) investigation.

The unit said in a statement on Wednesday the investigation in its totality is worth approximately R1.4 billion which the state and the NLC have allegedly lost due to corruption at the organisation.

The value of each phase is:

• Phase 1 - R279 710 409.

• Phase 2 -R246 659 310.

• Phase 3 - R905 901.910.04

The SIU appeared before Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Trade and Industry on Wednesday to give an update on the investigation. In the presentation, SIU revealed new investigation findings.

One of the findings is related to award-winning actress, Moiteri Pheto, who unduly benefitted once again from the NLC grant funding.

The NLC approved grant funding of R5 million to Zibisibix Non-Profit Company for a chicken farm in December 2018. After receiving the R5 million, money moved from the account and the following payments were made:

• Black Planet Trading (Director: Thula Sindi) of an amount of R140 000.00

• Tsoseletso (Director: Moitheri Pheto) - R253 000.00

• Pheto Safe and Cleaning (Director: Dimakatso Pheto) - R124 000.00

• Sunguti projects (Director: Moitheri Pheto) - R2 800 000.00

• Moitheri Pheto’s personal bank account - R182 000.00

• Dimakatso Pheto (Moitheri’s sister) - R315 500.00

• Vehicle dealership- R252 400

• Agricultural Supplies- R209 500

The farm was purchased for R850 000, and the SIU found that the former chairperson of the NLC board Professor Alfred Nevhutanda signed the offer to purchase the farm in the Vaal area.

“Furthermore, the evidence that SIU gathered revealed that the farm was purchased for the benefit of Dimakatso Pheto. The case has been referred for civil litigation for recovery and criminal referrals are being prepared,” it said.

The SIU also presented to Parliament how the South African Youth Movement (SAYM) applied for grant funding on behalf of the Presley Chweneyagae Foundation, which belong to award winning actor, Presley Chweneyagae.

The main purpose of the application was for the Take Back the Future Musical, Documentary and Poetry Arts programme. The NLC approved a grant funding of an amount of R15 million.

From the R15 million, R2 999 967.00 was transferred to Iron Bridge Travelling Agency and Events in August 2016. Iron Bridge Travelling Agency and Events is owned by the former NLC Chief Operating Officer, Phillemon Letwaba’s wife, Rebotile Malomane.

In May 2017, a further R950 190.00 was transferred to VNMM Consulting Engineers CC. VNMM Consulting Engineers is owned by Prof Nevhutanda’s son-in-law, Meshack Makhubela. On 25 May 2017, an amount of R500 000 with a reference plot purchase was transferred to conveyancing attorneys.

From the balance of R 450 190, Prof Nevhutanda received R100 000 for a bus purchase and a further R60 000 for a funeral and debit orders for a car finance account.

The SIU investigation revealed how a non-profit organisation (NPO) was hijacked and funds that were meant to uplift poor women in Marikana and the surrounding areas in the North West province on a chicken farming project were misused.

The application was adjudicated and the grant funding for the value of R13 million was awarded to an NPO and was to be paid in two tranches of R7 million and R6 million. In November 2020, the hijacked NPO made an application for additional funding and received a further R3.5 million.

The SIU’s investigation revealed that a shelf company named Silverlite Trading bought the land in Marikana for this project for R400 000. Advocate William Huma, a former NLC board member is the current sole director of Silverlight.

The SIU went on a site visit and found that the farm was well-built and completed. The chicken farm contains a workers' house, guard house, egg packaging and storehouse and chicken egg production house and there is a borehole.

However, since the chicken farm is not in operation. It is being vandalised, and some of the electric cables and solar panels were stolen from the farm.

The SIU has so far made eight criminal referrals to the National Prosecuting Unit and 11 disciplinary referrals to NLC officials.

The SIU was, in terms of Proclamation R32 of 2020, authorised by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of corruption and maladministration in the affairs of NLC and the conduct of NLC officials and to recover any financial losses suffered by the State.

In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996 (SIU Act), the SIU will refer any evidence pointing to criminal conduct it uncovers during its investigations to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) for further action.

The SIU is empowered by the SIU Act to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal in its name to correct any wrongdoing uncovered during its investigation caused by acts of corruption, fraud, or maladministration. – SAnews.gov.za

 

Edwin
Wed, 02/14/2024 - 13:22

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Unlocking the Future: Rent to Own Solar Systems

Location: MyPR

The world is changing, and so are our energy needs. With a growing emphasis on sustainability and renewable energy sources, more homeowners are exploring the possibility of installing solar panels on their properties. Solar power not only reduces your carbon footprint but can also lead to significant long-term savings on electricity bills. However, the upfront …

Read moreUnlocking the Future: Rent to Own Solar Systems

Exploring the World of Power Solutions : A Comprehensive Guide

Location: MyPR

In today’s fast-paced world, the need for reliable power solutions is more crucial than ever. Whether it’s for home, outdoor, or emergency use, understanding the different types of power equipment available is key to choosing the right product for your needs. Starting with Lithium-Ion Batteries, these are essential for high-efficiency, long-lasting power storage. They’re perfect …

Read moreExploring the World of Power Solutions : A Comprehensive Guide