Exciting new energy projects were inaugurated in the City of Johannesburg on Wednesday, 20 March 2024. The City now boasts a state-of-the-art substation in Fleurhof and a groundbreaking micro-grid project in Alexandra, a pioneering initiative for an informal settlement. Executive Mayor Cllr Kabelo Gwamanda, alongside Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and City Power CEO Tshifularo Mashava, unveiled and activated the new Fleurhof Substation in Roodepoort and the Amarasta Micro-Grid Electrification project in Alexandra, respectively. The Fleurhof Substation features cutting-edge technology enabling fast and real-time communication to detect faults or maintenance needs swiftly. This translates to quicker turnaround times for outages, reducing customer wait times for restoration. Additionally, the updated features streamline fault identification, saving operators valuable time.

Cllr Gwamanda expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “We are here in Fleurhof for the unveiling of our cutting-edge substation, marking a significant milestone in modern energy infrastructure.”

He further highlighted the collaborative efforts between the City of Johannesburg and the Gauteng Provincial Government to address longstanding issues and ensure consistent water supply.

“This substation stands as a testament to our commitment to protect the supply of Rand Water with reliable power,” Cllr Gwamanda added.

The launch of the substation was followed by the unveiling of the Amarasta Micro-Grid project in Alexandra, a joint venture between the city’s power utility and the Gauteng Province.

This innovative system, which is expected to power up to 500 households, will provide a reliable and sustainable electricity source, contributing to carbon emission reduction and reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources. 

Comprising photovoltaic panels, inverters, energy storage solutions, and an advanced monitoring and control system, the project aims to optimise energy generation and distribution.

Written by Brümilda Swartbooi

22/03/2024

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