#Renewable Energy #South Africa #Longyuan Wind #De Aar

Transforming Lives Through Wind Power in South Africa

In the vast arid plains of South Africa's Northern Cape Province, a beacon of hope emerges through the De Aar Wind Power Project. Completed in 2017, this revolutionary initiative represents a successful collaboration between China and South Africa under the Belt and Road Initiative and stands as a testament to how renewable energy can empower local communities and stimulate economic growth.

On a breezy afternoon, Xolani Taute, a 31-year-old local, illustrates the transformative power of this project. Once an unemployed electrician whose future appeared bleak, Xolani is now a trainee wind turbine technician, embracing a new life path thanks to the opportunities presented by Longyuan South Africa Renewables Ltd. (Longyuan SA), part of the larger China Energy Investment Group.

Xolani recalls, "Longyuan has changed my life in many ways." His journey began when he learned of a recruiting opportunity for the De Aar Wind Power Project. With determination, he applied, and not only did he secure a job, but he was also offered a sponsorship for his technical training at a college in Cape Town. After completing his studies, he gained hands-on experience at the De Aar wind farm. "They covered my college fees, accommodation, transport, food, everything," Xolani proudly states.

The De Aar Wind Power Project, with an investment of approximately 2.5 billion RMB (about 352 million U.S. dollars), comprises 163 wind turbines with a total installation capacity of 244.5 megawatts. This facility isn't just the largest operational wind farm in South Africa; it's pivotal in generating about 770 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually, supplying power to around 300,000 homes and alleviating the country's energy shortages.

However, the impact of Longyuan SA transcends beyond mere power generation. Their mission emphasizes nurturing local talent and fostering skills development among residents. Over 110 young technicians have undergone training, with more than 80% of the workforce now comprised of locals, many of whom hold vital roles in operations and management. Xolani reflects, "By teaching people, you give them skills necessary for renewable energy; this knowledge opens doors for future job opportunities."

As a result of this project, Xolani is now able to support his family and contribute to the community's upliftment. Thabiso Moleko, a deployment counselor from the local Department of Employment and Labor, highlights the project's significance: "People now possess skills that they can use not only within Longyuan but also in other companies, leading to job creation and diminishing poverty, thereby promoting economic growth across South Africa."

In addition to workforce empowerment, Longyuan SA is dedicated to community development through various initiatives. They run a scholarship program worth approximately 4.5 million rand (about 263,200 U.S. dollars) annually, aiding students from underprivileged backgrounds. Daswin Basson, now a senior maintenance technician with the De Aar Project, emphasizes, "It gave me the opportunity to build my career and make something of my life when I had no financial means to do so."

Community infrastructure improvements also abound, evidenced by the revitalization of a local sports field, now a vibrant community gathering spot. Ronald Faul, the supervisor for sports facilities in De Aar, notes, "We say that 'a child in sport is a child out of court,' and thus it is contributing to that. Our crime rates have dropped, and our youth are benefiting from these facilities."

Moreover, the introduction of a mobile clinic has proven invaluable, offering free medical services to about 9,000 residents annually. This initiative ensures that healthcare reaches those unable to travel to clinics due to mobility or financial constraints. Nkulukelo Mazibuko, an optometrist working with the mobile clinic, conveys the importance of their services: "We provide necessary care for those who need help the most."

Furthering their commitment to social responsibility, Longyuan SA sponsors local old-age homes, ensuring food and care for the elderly, and invests in educational facilities for children from low-income families. These efforts include repairing and upgrading the water infrastructure in De Aar, aimed at providing safe drinking water for over 2,000 residents.

Ultimately, the De Aar Wind Power Project represents a powerful example of how renewable energy initiatives can enhance local economies while improving the quality of life for community members. The collective efforts of Longyuan SA and the resilient, hopeful residents of De Aar are paving the way for a brighter future and igniting the ambitions of countless individuals who now envision a pathway out of poverty and into sustainable success.

As Thabiso Moleko reflects, "In the future, we hope to collaborate further with Longyuan, nurturing skills and fostering a better De Aar and a better South Africa at large."