Phase 1 of the MBSA solar project
Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA) says it will invest R100-million in Phase 2 of a solar power project at its East London production plant, in the Eastern Cape.
An additional 22 847 photovoltaic solar panels will be installed to convert sunlight into electricity, and to contribute to reducing the company’s carbon footprint.
MBSA produces the C-Class model for the local and export markets.
By 2030, the premium car maker plans to deliver more than 70% of its energy demand from renewable energies.
“The installation of the solar panels at our manufacturing plant is a key pillar of our energy strategy,” says MBSA CEO and manufacturing executive director Andreas Brand.
Phase 1 of the 3 692 solar project was completed last year, and provided 2 MWp (megawatt peak).
Phase 2 will cover five additional rooftops of the East London plant, expanding the footprint by a further 12.6 MWp.
Combined, the total solar field size will include 26 539 solar panels, equating to 14.6 MWp – in line with the plant’s maximum demand during any production day, says MBSA.
The yearly generation of the completed system will contribute to an estimated 20% of the production site’s annual megawatt-hour consumption.
The project is set to roll out in the first quarter of next year.