27 July 2021, a virtual ceremony was hosted by Longyuan SA Renewable Pty (Ltd) (Longyuan SA) to celebrate the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with University of the Western Cape (UWC).
Longyuan SA is the wholly-owned subsidiary of China Longyuan and China Energy Corporation, which is the world’s largest wind energy developer and operator. Together with its local partner, Mulilo, Longyuan develops and operates two wind power projects in the Northern Cape, one of which is the biggest operational wind project in South Africa. The total investment of the two projects exceeded 5 billion Rand, which marks that China Longyuan is the first Chinese wind energy developer to be engaged in South African and even African markets. These two projects play positive roles in solving power supply, improving employment and economy, as well as developing huge social welfare programs in South Africa. Longyuan SA will work closely with UWC in terms of students supports, bursary program, practical training program, environmental protection, and many other initiatives.
The Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Prof Tyrone Pretorius, told the guests that UWC extends many strong relationships with our partners from the People's Republic of China, and we welcome Longyuan SA, one of our new partners from the People's Republic of China. Prof Pretorius appreciated Longyuan SA for finding value in our institution to invest in our students and our university. UWC is looking forward to building a mutually beneficial relationship with Longyuan SA in the years to come. Prof Pretorius said it is lovely to see many communities investment projects in Longyuan SA, primarily through the wind power project established in the Northern Cape. These projects include many educational initiatives for young people.
UWC is deeply appreciative that Longyuan SA wishes to extend this educational support to our UWC students from the Northern Cape through laptops and devices and an opportunity to learn and be involved at the wind farms, through internships during vacations or after they graduate. Prof Pretouris said UWC is committed to engaging in matters of real significance that benefits outside our society and our world and are equally. UWC students are committed to this as well. UWC is very proud of the fact, which has won Africa's greenest campus award three times. As a research lead University, UWC understands all too well the many challenges that our world face. And the provision of sustainable and clean energy sources is of vital importance. Therefore, as a university community, we welcome President Cyril Ramaphosa commitment to supporting independent power producers. We're able to supplement our energy of goods cleanly and sustainably.