In a pioneering move towards sustainable energy practices, The Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club has officially launched its solar power and battery microgrid.
This groundbreaking project, developed in collaboration with Solarise Africa, Hooray Power and Caracal Engineering, marks a significant leap towards energy independence and environmental responsibility, as it represents the first instance where a club of this size has adopted a solar and battery microgrid project of such magnitude.
“Selecting Solarise Africa as our energy partner was a strategic decision driven by their expert approach, proven success, and innovative power purchase model that relieved us of the capital burden associated with outright purchase and future technology requirements,” said Christopher Bentley, CEO of The Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club.
The construction process commenced in October 2023 and the solar carports and battery room were built in record time. “With our solar system now operational, generating around 400Mwh of energy per year, we anticipate substantial savings on our monthly energy bills, coupled with the assurance of a constant energy supply. This venture not only secures our financial interests but also aligns seamlessly with our commitment to environmental sustainability,” Bentley concluded.
Sakkie van Wijk, Co-Founder and COO at Solarise Africa, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club’s commitment to sustainability is commendable. Over the 20-year PPA term, The Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club is projected to save approximately R21 million on utility costs, marking a substantial financial and environmental impact. This collaboration exemplifies the positive impact that businesses can have on both the environment and their bottom line. We are proud to be a part of this historic project, empowering the club to harness the potential of solar energy and contribute to a cleaner, greener future.”
Adriaan Erasmus, CEO of Hooray Power, highlighted the significance of the project, saying, “Elevating the golfing experience to new heights, the energy solution installation at the golf course is a beacon of sustainability and resilience. By seamlessly integrating green energy into the course’s infrastructure, we managed to mitigate the environmental impact traditionally associated with generators, reducing noise pollution and carbon emissions. In embracing this cutting-edge energy solution, the golf course not only demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship but also fortifies its operations against external energy uncertainties, embodying a harmonious fusion of luxury, sustainability, and resilience.”
Nathan Venter, Managing Director of Caracal Engineering, the company responsible for the solar PV mounting structure, expressed gratitude, stating, “Caracal Engineering is honoured to have been afforded the privilege by Solarise Africa to work on the solar transformation of The Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club. Thank you for choosing us to design, engineer, manufacture and construct our cutting-edge solar PV mounting structure for this application. We hope the members of the club enjoy the benefits of Solar PV and the effort of Caracal, Hooray Power, Solarise Africa and the forward-thinking management of The Royal, have poured into the project to make it a reality.”
