The Western Cape Government plans to install containerised solar photovoltaic cells and battery storage across the province in an effort to combat loadshedding.‘Our aim with this project is to pilot how we can speedily install containerised solar PV cells with battery storage in these municipalities, which would stop load shedding in these towns,’ says Western Cape Premier Alan Winde. ‘We would like to see these projects launched as soon as possible.
The solution combines solar panels and energy storage units within a portable shipping container. The solar panels are placed on the roof of the container, while the batteries are stored inside. This solution provides a mobile and scalable energy solution,The project forms part of the Western Cape Energy Resilience Programme, which is aimed at ending blackouts and positioning the province as ‘the hub for energy resilience’.
Winde says the Western Cape plans to be the first province to combat loadshedding, and adds that municipalities who wish to participate in the initiative must meet specific criteria – such as having the necessary technical capabilities. Anton Bredell, minister of local government, environmental affairs and development planning, says the Western Cape government will provide technical and project management support to municipalities in need.
Furthermore, the local government is currently working with five other municipalities; funding energy studies and enabling private-sector power projects. ‘We are doing our homework to be prepared and plan for new sources of energy in a responsible way,’ says Mireille Wenger, the province’s minister of finance and economic opportunities.