Nordex Energy South Africa, the local arm of German wind turbine manufacturer Nordex, has unveiled plans to increase its wind energy generation capacity in South Africa by 830MW, marking a significant expansion for the company.
This additional capacity represents a substantial 75% increase from the company’s existing operational capacity of 1GW and is slated to come online by mid-2025.
David Hortet, head of sales for Africa at Nordex Energy South Africa, emphasized the company’s commitment to bolstering renewable energy resources and supporting the transition to sustainable energy. He stated, “Our increased commitment in South Africa demonstrates our confidence in the renewable energy sector.”
The new capacity being developed by Nordex will cater to private off-take arrangements facilitated by the government’s independent power procurement programme. This programme encourages private entities to enter into power-purchase agreements, with the national transmission operator facilitating energy delivery under a regulated wheeling framework.
Nordex currently holds the distinction of being the leading wind turbine manufacturer in South Africa. Recently, the EDF Renewables Korusun cluster, comprising projects like Umsobomvu and Hartebeesthoek with a combined capacity of 295MW, achieved financial close. These projects utilize 50 Nordex 5.9MW turbines.
With a global presence spanning 40 markets and approximately 50GW of installed wind capacity worldwide, Nordex operates manufacturing facilities in Germany, Spain, Brazil, India, Mexico, and the US.
In anticipation of South Africa’s growing wind energy sector, Nordex is investing in local manufacturing capabilities. The company will establish a manufacturing plant in Humansdorp to produce concrete tower sections for wind turbines, commencing operations in June. This facility will specialize in constructing 120m-high towers.
Acknowledging the skills gap in South Africa’s wind energy industry, Zelrese Brair, Nordex South Africa’s head of people, highlighted efforts to address this challenge. Initiatives include introducing new generation technology to enhance unitary power and launching an internship program to cultivate a pipeline of future technicians.
