Every year, the now completed Oyster Bay Wind Farm will generate over 568 GWh and prevent 590 000 t of carbon dioxide (CO2) from being emitted into the atmosphere.
The project brings the number of operational Enel Green Power South Africa wind and solar sites in South Africa to nine, with an overall installed capacity of over 800 MW.
Its portfolio of projects includes Nojoli (88 MW), Gibson Bay (111 MW) and Nxuba (140 MW), in the Eastern Cape; Upington (10 MW) and Adams (82.5 MW), in the Northern Cape; Paleisheuwel (82.5 MW), in the Western Cape; Pulida (82.5 MW), in the Free State; and Tom Burke (66 MW), in Limpopo.
The commercial operation of Oyster Bay follows closely on the heels of the Nxuba Wind Farm, which reached commercial operation ahead of schedule in December last year, despite challenges presented by the global pandemic.
Enel Green Power South Africa country manager William Price says Oyster Bay, which represents a €180-million investment in South Africa, “clearly demonstrates the crucial role the company plays in helping the country solve its energy crisis using renewable energy solutions”.
“The Oyster Bay Wind Farm was one of five wind projects awarded to Enel Green Power in April 2015. The solution is supported by a 20-year power purchase agreement with South African energy utility provider Eskom, as part of the South African government’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme,” he explains.
The company’s commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by its ability to boost local socioeconomic development through job creation and education initiatives.
Enel Green Power South Africa also used digital platforms, as well as innovative software and methods, during construction to monitor and support site activities, including plant commissioning and controlling the quality of on-site operations, using devices such as smart glasses that allow instant feedback and suggestions on health, safety, environmental and quality activities on site, besides others.
The company adds that rigorous safety protocols were implemented, in light of the pandemic and in line with the indications provided by health authorities, with the aim of ensuring the necessary protection for the workers involved in the construction as well as the communities surrounding the Oyster Bay Wind Farm.