Energy solutions provider Energy Partners, which is 57%-owned by holding company PSG Group, celebrated its partnership with Western Cape-based estate Val de Vie last month.

The event was highlighted by a polo match and an auction for the benefit of the Hope through Action foundation.

The locally developed Icon home energy system, currently being installed in the new The Vines development at Val de Vie, was also auctioned at the event. These systems, once installed, have the potential to yield savings of more than R10 000/y per household.

Energy Partners home solutions head Alan Matthews says the Icon system is a home power solution that includes a battery and inverter combination, heat pump technology and an oversized hot-water tank as the primary energy storage medium. “Each solution will provide a 15% to 22% return on investment, depending on the size of the house, consumption and sun exposure.”

He adds that the Icon comes standard with a user-friendly application, which indicates battery power, as well as current and cumulative savings generated. “Great emphasis was placed on developing a user-friendly home energy solution that will look good in a home – two aspects that set the Icon apart from many of its competitors.”

Val de Vie marketing director Ryk Neethling says the estate looks forward to a long and prosperous relationship with Energy Partners and added that the organisation was a leader in innovation. “We plan . . . to install . . . 120 Icon home energy systems as part of our long-term roll-out plan. Sustainability is a core focus for us and we are excited to minimise our carbon footprint by installing these solutions.”

To conclude the celebration, several local wines and brandy from the Vrede & Lust, Rust & Vrede, Val de Vie and Tokara wine estates were auctioned to raise more than R25 000 for nongovernment organisation Hope through Action. An Icon home energy hub was also auctioned for R225 000 in aid of the charity.