What is the Carissa Wind Energy Facility?

The Carissa Wind Energy Facility is a massive wind farm project approved in South Africa, set to include 154 turbines and deliver up to 1,000 MW of renewable power.

How will the Carissa Wind Energy Facility benefit South Africa?

The wind farm will power a green ammonia plant in Nelson Mandela Bay, producing hydrogen-based fuel without emissions. It is expected to cut pollution, stabilize the grid, lower energy costs, and create jobs.

When will the Carissa Wind Energy Facility be operational?

Construction on the Carissa Wind Energy Facility is expected to start in 2027, with completion targeted for 2029. Once online, the project will support South Africa's efforts to reduce its dependence on dirty fuels.

Home / Environment / South Africa Greenlights Gigantic Wind Farm to Fuel Green Hydrogen

South Africa Greenlights Gigantic Wind Farm to Fuel Green Hydrogen

12 Oct

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Summary

South Africa approves its largest wind farm yet
154 turbines to deliver up to 1,000 MW of renewable power
Wind farm to power green ammonia plant, producing hydrogen-based fuel

South Africa Greenlights Gigantic Wind Farm to Fuel Green Hydrogen

In a major step towards renewable energy and a greener future, South Africa has approved the construction of its largest wind farm yet. The Carissa Wind Energy Facility, planned near Beaufort West in the Western Cape, will include 154 turbines and deliver up to 1,000 megawatts of clean power.

This electricity will be used to run a green ammonia plant in Nelson Mandela Bay, which will employ renewable energy to produce hydrogen-based fuel without releasing harmful emissions. Supporters of the project believe it could significantly cut pollution, stabilize the country's power grid, lower long-term energy costs, and create new job opportunities.

The approval of the wind farm followed a detailed environmental review. AMDA Developments coordinated the planning, while Hive Hydrogen, the group behind the green ammonia plant, has committed to purchasing the energy once the farm is operational. Construction is expected to commence in 2027, with the project targeted for completion by 2029. Once online, the Carissa Wind Energy Facility will play a crucial role in South Africa's efforts to reduce its dependence on dirty fuels and position the country as a leader in the fast-growing global hydrogen market.