As Africa embraces a clean energy future, the Western Cape is leading the charge. Cape Town, with its focus on solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, is at the forefront of this transformation. Our commitment to sustainability is evident in our actionable plans and ambitious renewable energy targets, setting a benchmark for green leadership in Africa.
We’re proud to say that Cape Town boasts South Africa’s greenest economy. We’re all about clean, renewable, and sustainable energy solutions that are good for the planet and business. Our focus is on smart technologies that are both environmentally friendly and economically viable, creating jobs and opportunities for everyone.
An example of this is the GreenCape’s Energy Programme, which takes a collaborative approach to drive an unbiased energy transition in Africa. We build long-term partnerships with industry players, investors, and governments to stimulate investment and job creation, particularly in the manufacturing sector. The team comprises experts across various energy sub-sectors, including:
- Energy Services
- Utility-scale Renewable Energy
- Sustainable Mobility
- Alternative Service Delivery Unit
- Bio-energy
Building a Sustainable Future: From Linear to Circular
Traditional economies have followed a linear path. The “take-make-waste” model is heavily reliant on fossil fuels and has contributed to pressing global challenges like climate change, resource depletion, and social inequality.
In Cape Town, we’re embracing a different approach: the circular economy. This model focuses on using renewable resources, minimising waste, and creating closed-loop systems where materials are reused and repurposed. It’s a smarter, more sustainable way to do business, and it’s creating exciting opportunities for innovation and growth.
By adopting circular practices, companies can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and unlock new revenue streams. It’s also a powerful way to create decent jobs, promote social inclusion, and build a more resilient and equitable economy for everyone.
Taking Charge of Our Energy Future
South Africa’s energy crisis, with its frequent load-shedding and rising Eskom tariffs, is a challenge we’re all too familiar with. Cape Town is a city of innovators, and we’re applying that spirit to the energy crisis. Instead of waiting for the energy crisis to solve itself, we’re actively pursuing renewable energy solutions.
Businesses are increasingly turning to renewable energy sources like solar to secure their own reliable and affordable power. One popular solution is small-scale embedded generation (SSEG), which allows businesses to generate clean energy right on their premises, often at costs lower than Eskom’s tariffs. It’s a win-win for businesses and the environment.
Financing Your Renewable Journey
The initial investment in solar energy can seem like a big step. Here, in Cape Town, innovative financing options are making it easier than ever for businesses to harness the power of the sun. Power purchase agreements (PPAs) and lease agreements are removing the financial barriers, allowing businesses to enjoy the benefits of solar without the upfront costs.
These financing models offer a range of advantages, including:
- Predictable energy costs: Lock in stable energy prices and protect your business from rising Eskom tariffs;
- Improved cash flow: Free up capital for other business needs by spreading the cost of solar over time;
- Reduced risk: Transfer the responsibility for system performance and maintenance to the solar provider.
Pick n Pay in Brackenfell is a prime example of how accessible solar has become. They installed a 250.8 kW solar PV system through a solar rooftop rental agreement with Decentral Energy. It’s a testament to how solar can be a smart financial decision while also contributing to a greener future.
Urban Agriculture
Cape Town’s urban agriculture scene is flourishing, with hemp emerging as a star player. This versatile crop is transforming industries from pharmaceuticals and construction to textiles, offering sustainable and profitable alternatives to traditional materials.
Hemp: A Natural Solution for Multiple Sectors
Pharmaceuticals:
Medicinal cannabis, cultivated in a variety of settings, is creating exciting opportunities across the pharmaceutical value chain. From cultivation and processing to the supply of specialised technologies and services, Cape Town’s robust medical industry and favourable exchange rate make it a prime location for investment in this rapidly growing sector.
Construction:
Hemp-based construction materials like hempcrete and hemp insulation are gaining traction for their impressive sustainability credentials. These materials are mould-resistant, breathable, fire-resistant and contribute to carbon capture. The “Hemp Hotel” in Cape Town, the world’s tallest building incorporating hemp-based materials, stands as a symbol of our commitment to green building practices.
Textiles:
Hemp offers a sustainable alternative to conventional fibres like cotton in the textile industry. With a rich heritage in clothing and textile manufacturing, Cape Town is poised to become a leading hub for hemp textile processing, supplying both local and global markets.
Circular Economy: Pioneering Waste Solutions
Recycling and Waste Reduction:
We’re serious about creating a circular economy in Cape Town, where materials are recycled and reused to minimise waste. Innovative initiatives like the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) industry and waste foundry sand (WFS) recycling are turning what was once waste into valuable resources.
Black Soldier Fly:
Food waste is a significant challenge, but the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) industry offers a promising solution. BSF larvae can efficiently convert organic waste into high-value products, including animal feed and soil amendments. Cape Town is a global leader in BSF innovation, with companies leveraging this technology to address food waste and enhance food security.
Waste Foundry Sand:
Waste foundry sand (WFS) was once a problematic waste stream for foundries. Now, innovative recycling techniques are transforming WFS into a valuable resource. It can be recycled on-site or used by other industries as a secondary material, reducing the need for new raw materials, lowering costs, and enhancing business resilience.
Leading the Charge in Electric Transportation
Cape Town is committed to a cleaner, more sustainable transportation future. Electric vehicles are playing a key role in this transformation, with initiatives already underway to electrify both public and private transportation.
Electric Buses and Beyond:
Golden Arrow Bus Service, a major public transport provider, has successfully piloted electric buses, demonstrating the viability of this technology in Cape Town. The city is also exploring the use of electric vehicles for its fleet, further reducing greenhouse gas emissions and operational costs.
Powering Up with Charging Infrastructure:
To support the growing adoption of electric vehicles, we’re investing in a robust charging infrastructure network. This will make it easier for residents and businesses to choose electric, ensuring a smooth and convenient transition to a cleaner transportation system.
Cape Town is a city where sustainability and opportunity go hand in hand. We’re committed to building a green economy that benefits everyone, and we’re excited to welcome investors and businesses who share our vision.
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