Recognising the critical role of wind energy in building sustainable and resilient communities, the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) commemorates Global Wind Day by acknowledging a decade of remarkable progress and the limitless potential of wind power to decarbonise South Africa’s economy.
Wind energy is driving green industrialisation, creating jobs, and promoting inclusive, sustainable growth.
“As an association, we take this opportunity to celebrate our members for their projects that have made tangible, positive contributions to the socio-economic development of the communities they operate in,” says Morongoa Ramaboa, chief communications officer at SAWEA.
The Independent Power Producer (IPP) procurement programme places economic development at its core, making social upliftment an obligation – not an option – for the wind sector. At the heart of this development lies a commitment to improving the quality of life and economic wellbeing of people, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
According to the 2024 South African Renewable Energy Grid Survey a total of 10,279 MW of new wind capacity can be brought online within the next three years. This would make a significant contribution toward the 53 GW of new generation capacity targeted by 2032, of which 39 GW is expected to come from renewables. This means that wind energy alone could deliver a significant portion of the total capacity required – demonstrating the sector’s readiness to scale rapidly.
Importantly, 33% of wind project shareholding is black-owned, and 9% is held by local communities – ensuring that the financial returns from these projects flow back into the areas where they operate, supporting local development and empowerment.
Deeply resonating with this year’s Global Wind Day theme, “A Day of Community Action,” the sector has committed close to R900-million towards Socio-Economic Development (SED) and Enterprise Development (ED) initiatives within a 50km radius of operational wind farms – demonstrating that community upliftment is a fundamental part of project development.
Social Impact Case Study
The wind industry continues to demonstrate its value beyond the grid through initiatives that empower people and strengthen communities.
As a testament to the value of long-term community partnerships, SAWEA highlights the Aurora Wind Farm, which celebrates 10 years of collaboration with the community of Vredenburg.
Located on the West Coast, the 94 MW facility – home to 47 turbines generating over 279 GWh annually – has made a significant impact through investments in early childhood development, skills training, local enterprise support, and initiatives promoting health, wellness, and community safety.
“At Aurora Wind Power, we believe that true sustainability is built on the strength of our partnerships. Over the past decade, our collaboration with the Vredenburg community has shown that when we work together – with transparency, respect, and shared purpose – we can create lasting impact. This journey is not just about clean energy; it’s about empowering South Africans to shape a resilient, inclusive future for generations to come,” says Luyanda Jonas, the CEO of Aurora Wind Power.
This decade-long relationship reinforces how transparency, meaningful engagement, and sustained investment can create lasting change – empowering communities to become self-sufficient and resilient.
“Long-term renewable energy projects can serve as anchors of economic resilience in rural and underserved areas,” concludes Ramaboa. “Through targeted community engagement, we can build local capacity, deliver long-term impact, and enable communities to actively participate in and shape South Africa’s energy future.”