
YDE solar farm in Limpopo
Independent power producer (IPP) Yellow Door Energy (YDE) has inaugurated a large solar PV and battery energy storage microgrid system at a commercial farm of Waterberg Boerdery, in Limpopo.
Waterberg sought to increase energy reliability and reduce costs, having signed a power purchase agreement with YDE as a risk-free method for the farm to transition to clean electricity without incurring any capital expenses.
YDE sourced financing, and designed, built and commissioned the plant. It will also be responsible for operating and maintaining the system.
The plant comprises a 1 800 kW solar power system generating power through 3 200 solar panels and a battery energy storage system with a capacity of 2 900 kWh.
The system is expected to produce 3 400 MWh of clean electricity in the first year of operation, which should save 3.5-million kilograms of CO2 emissions.
YDE has more than 240 MW of awarded solar projects spanning six countries.
YDE CEO Forbes Padayachee comments that battery energy storage is becoming more economically viable and reduces reliance on the grid when combined with solar power.
“This is especially enticing for South African farmers wanting security of supply, as well as more sustainable operations. We aim to bring this solution to many more agricultural producers in the next few years.”
“The installation of the hybrid renewable energy system not only ensures uninterrupted operations but also aligns with our commitment to sustainable farming practices and innovation in food production,” says Waterberg COO Hans van der Walt.
Waterberg produces a range of vegetables, crops and livestock and is one of the largest potato growers in South Africa.