Since 2015, the Aurora Wind Power farm near Vredenburg in the Western Cape has been supplying 95 MW of reliable renewable energy to the grid. But the true success of the facility is not just about harnessing the abundant natural wind energy resources of the West Coast, it is about the social and economic impact felt in the community. This was re resounding sentiment shared by all in attendance at the picturesque Blue Bay Lodge in the heart of Saldanha Bay. 

Speaking at the gala dinner, Manager of the Saldana Bay Municipality, Mr Heinrich Mettler reflected on how the Aurora Wind Power team consistently works with local government and stakeholders within the Industrial Development Zone to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. The Wind Farm represents more than just megawatts on the grid – it’s impact includes skills transfer, enterprise development, and infrastructure investment that have helped transform lives across the West Coast region. He invited attendees to continue investing in the area in both their personal and professional capacity. 

Laura Wilsnach reflected on the impact the AWP bursary had on her and her chosen career as a teacher working as a training officer the Valued Citizens Connect and MPC connect. Similarly, Yolandi Africa CEO of Emfesani a registered NPC advised that the support of AWP for their healthcare programmes has been instrumental in building and deploying a mobile healthcare facility delivering essential healthcare support and awareness to the local communities across the West Coast. 

The celebration also recognised the outstanding contributions of Daniel Ponya- a security guard from Beyers Security who has been stationed at WC1 since construction. Mandy Petersen who is the first employee from the operating company Lerole and James Classen who sadly passed away in December 2025. 

In reflecting on the true achievements of AWP, acting CEO Vincent Mametja shared that it I not about energy, but people and collaboration that is the true legacy of AWP. He also thanked AWP’s shareholders ENGIE, Revego, and Kagiso Tiso Holdings for their continued support. 

Wind power already accounts for more than 3.5GW of installed capacity nationally, with a development pipeline exceeding 33GW. Recent developments, including the passing of the Electricity Regulation Amendment Act, NERSA’s approval of curtailment rules, and the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), signal a more supportive and investor-ready environment for renewable energy in the country. This is aligned to the target announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa on generating at least 40% of its electricity from renewable sources as part of a renewed push to secure long-term energy stability.

According to the Global Wind Energy Council, 2024 saw Africa achieving the highest wind installations for the continent when it hit 1,132MW. This reflects the continent’s commitment to embrace the global shift toward renewable generation that saw 109GW of new onshore wind and 8GW of offshore wind installations take place worldwide.

The milestone underscores the important role wind energy continues to play in building a low-carbon, inclusive future for South Africa. It also highlights how strong industry partnerships like the one between ENGIE and SAWEA are essential to realising the sector’s full potential and delivering lasting impact.