MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The Mossel Bay Municipality was the winner of the top-performing project award in the category for metro or municipal utilities at the Association of Municipal Electricity Utilities (Ameu) 2025 Awards on Tuesday 7 October.
The award was for the municipality’s 2MVA solar PV system with battery energy storage (Bess) at the Hartenbos Regional Wastewater Treatment Works, an infrastructure project valued at over R100m.
According to the municipality, this hybrid solar installation is designed to safeguard critical wastewater operations against stage 6 load-shedding and ensure uninterrupted service delivery, even in the event of a national blackout.
Excess energy generated is exported to the municipal grid, contributing to long-term cost savings and environmental sustainability.
“We are honoured to be recognised for a solution that not only protects vital infrastructure, but also empowers our community,” said Municipal Manager Colin Puren.
The project was created in partnership with Element Eden Consulting Engineers and Solareff, and came as a result of the peak load-shedding in 2022 and 2023.
The installation spans 3.5ha and includes 4 400 solar panels, a 3.2MVA inverter station, and a 4 500kWh battery energy storage system.
The municipality’s 2MVA solar PV system with battery energy storage at the Hartenbos Regional Wastewater Treatment Works. Photo: Mossel Bay Municipality
The municipality added that all necessary environmental approvals were obtained, and that the environmental impact was minimal.
Future expansion of the project is already planned, with environmental authorisation secured for a solar panel area double the current size, allowing for potential growth to 5MVA capacity, says the municipality.
The Ameu is a South African body for municipal electricity utilities and their affiliate members, recognising excellence in the electricity sector.
These awards are presented annually to highlight achievements, innovation and contributions within the industry.
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