Jendamark Automation has installed a R3.2-million rooftop solar plant at its manufacturing facility in Gqeberha, in the Eastern Cape. 

The system comprises 481 solar panels capable of generating up to 274.5 MWh of electricity a year.

The project includes two 100 kW inverters which are grid-tied with generator backup. This backup comprises two generators ­– a 550 kVA main generator and 22 kVA server backup (should the main generator fail).

“With orders from global OEMS [original equipment manufacturers, or vehicle manufacturers] to fulfil, production cannot stop because of load-shedding,” says Jendamark group MD Quinton Uren.

Jendamark serves a number of OEMs, including Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Ford, as well as a host of global Tier 1 component suppliers. 

The group employs more than 600 employees globally, between manufacturing facilities in Gqeberha, and Pune in India, and a sales presence in Germany and the US.

Jendamark Automation’s core business is designing and building automotive component assembly systems, specialising in catalytic converter assembly machines and powertrain assembly lines, explains Uren.

While Jendamark also serves the South African sector, it is mainly export-focused, with 95% of its assembly systems going to markets abroad.

The company also develops Industry 4.0-driven digital tech solutions (under the Odin Manufacturing brand) for improving customers' production line efficiencies. 

Jendamark Automation and Jendamark India are also moving into the clean energy space, working together to develop battery/power assembly systems for the growing electric vehicle market, says Uren.

With Day Zero fast approaching in Nelson Mandela Bay, Jendamark has decided to also work to cut water consumption and reduce strain on the local supply dams, notes Uren.

The company is currently installing four 5 000 l rainwater storage tanks for catchment from the roof, while it also has a borehole to enable to use of ground water for the facility.

“Sustainable environment, social and governance investments are critical to the long-term success and continuity of our business,” says Uren.

“Investing in sustainability initiatives allows us to make a difference in our environment and our communities. 

“Although it’s a financial outlay, it’s also a long-term cost-saving measure. 

“Making sure that our business has the right resources to stay operational on a day-to-day basis, despite challenging circumstances, is really critical in delivering on our contracts with global customers.”

Jendamark will be installing a similar rooftop solar project at its Jendamark India manufacturing facility in 2022.