The shift towards renewable energy is more critical than ever, as the world grapples with the consequences of climate change and environmental degradation. While the task may seem daunting, collective efforts in adopting renewable energy sources can lead to a significant reduction in carbon emissions and a more sustainable future.
Solar power implementation at Middelburg
At Babcock, our dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility drives us to seek out and implement green energy solutions across our operations. This commitment not only aligns with South Africa’s environmental goals but also supports Babcock International’s vision of a sustainable future.
One notable project is our transition to solar power at the Middelburg facility.
Solar Power Transformation at Middelburg
Our yellow-metal facility in Middelburg was constructed in 2015 to offer responsive regional support and service across our entire construction equipment product range. The building was equipped with a 500 kVA generator as a back-up power supply so that customers could access service support 24-hours a day from Babcock regardless of national power outages. While this was sufficient for some time, the diesel used in the generator impacted negatively on the air.
A solar solution was identified to replace the generator which would meet the branch’s energy requirements, while also adhering to Babcock’s sustainable procurement policies. Following a load study to assess the energy consumption, the supplier proposed a solution that would guarantee power during load shedding and meet Babcock’s target on climate change commitments of ensuring the use of 100% renewable energy by year 2030.
The new solar installation, which has been fully functional since April 2024, comprises a 150-kilowatt hybrid inverter system driven by 198 x 550-watt solar panels installed on the roof, making it one of the largest solar installations in the region. Fortunately, the 30 000 m2 building, with a roof large enough to accommodate all the panels, was constructed facing north to maximise natural light entering the building, so it was ideally positioned for this installation and can be used further for additional panels if required in the future.
We are considering other environmental initiatives across our operations, including capturing rainwater to utilise on-site, as part of our ongoing commitment to sustainability.
By transitioning to solar power at Middelburg, Babcock is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also setting a benchmark for renewable energy use in the industry. This is a significant step towards our goal of a greener future for everyone.
