By way of its distribution partner and project implementer, Solek Innovations, high-tech solar power solutions manufacturer SolarWorld Africa supplied a solar electricity system to the Grootbos Foundation, a nonprofit organisation (NPO) in the Western Cape.
SolarWorld donated the solar system, while Solek provided a free of charge installation and engineering expertise.
The project includes a 5 kWp solar system, which will generate sufficient energy to ensure the NPO has a reduced, fixed monthly electricity cost. Apart from assisting the Grootbos Foundation in saving on its electricity bill, the project contributes to conserving the environment, which forms part of the company’s vision.
“Our commitment to sustainability begins on the inside. It starts with how we manufacture our products, choose our materials and treat our employees, then it extends to the communities we serve,” comments SolarWorld Africa MD Gregor Kuepper.
Kuepper notes that the company’s commitment encompasses both economic and social sustainability, which includes its factories, suppliers and employees. He adds that it is part of SolarWorld’s identity and this is what sets the company apart from the rest of the solar manufacturing industry.
Moreover, Solek MD Hannes van Zyl points out that partnering and long-term relations with well-established solar companies have always been a key strategy. “Our collaboration with SolarWorld on this project has proven successful and we look forward to building on past success and continue to collaborate in the future.”
“This donation assists us to work towards our vision and brings us closer to living our commitment to sustainability and conservation,” comments Grootbos Foundation MD Julie Cheetham.
The Grootbos Foundation was established in 2003 with the vision of transforming communities and conserving the environment through the creation of sustainable livelihoods and active citizenship.
“The mission entails conserving the unique Cape Floral Kingdom, the region we call home; and to develop sustainable livelihoods through ecotourism, enterprise development, sports development and education,” says the Grootbos Foundation.
She commends the organisations for assisting the NPO in creating its environment-friendly, energy efficient office and training facility, which is now complete with a new solar system. “We are extremely grateful to SolarWorld Africa and Solek Innovations,” notes Cheetham.
The Grootbos Foundation solar system is operative and will generate clean renewable energy for the training centre for at least 25 years.