SOUTH AFRICA – Apple and pear growers in South Africa are making investments in solar energy systems as the country’s electricity supply continues to falter.
The country’s apple and pear producers have long grappled with the challenges posed by frequent power outages, locally known as load shedding.
These disruptions not only jeopardize production but also incur substantial financial losses. In response, many orchards and packhouses have turned to alternative energy sources to safeguard their operations and mitigate environmental impact.
Among those leading the charge is Tru-Cape, a prominent exporter in the South African topfruit market.
A multitude of its suppliers have made substantial investments in renewable energy, effectively securing their production while simultaneously reducing costs and environmental footprint.
At Van Niekerk Boerdery near Caledon, the addition of solar panels in October 2023 has yielded remarkable results.
Not only has the farm slashed carbon dioxide emissions by over 32 tonnes, but it has also witnessed enhanced operational independence and efficiency.
Wimpie van Niekerk, overseeing apple and pear orchards, underscores the dual benefit of solar energy, stating, “Solar energy is available. It benefits me, and it benefits the environment, making it a win-win situation.”
The shift towards sustainability extends beyond energy initiatives. Laastedrif Agri, located near Ceres, exemplifies this commitment through innovative water management practices.
Balancing dams strategically positioned across the farm facilitate gravity-based irrigation, minimizing reliance on energy-intensive pumping systems.
Additionally, the farm has implemented natural wetland filtration processes to recycle effluent for crop irrigation, further reducing environmental impact.
Rossouw Cillié from Laastedrif Agri emphasizes the holistic approach to sustainability, noting, “We are building a future where environmental responsibility is paramount, and sustainable farming practices are integral to our operations.”
Similarly, Witzenberg Properties, encompassing Dennekruin and Die Eike farms, has embraced solar energy as a cornerstone of its sustainability strategy.
The deployment of a 1.4 MW solar system has significantly reduced reliance on conventional power sources, aligning energy consumption with irrigation needs.
Nico Verhoef from Witzenberg Properties highlights the broader implications of renewable energy adoption, stating, “Solar energy not only offers cost savings but also presents an opportunity to mitigate carbon emissions.”
“As environmental consciousness grows, embracing sustainable practices becomes imperative for the agricultural sector.”
For all the latest packaging and printing industry news from Africa and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to our YouTube channel.
