Madimbo and Mabvete communities to get solar power and free Wi-Fi

More than 700 households in the Madimbo and Mabvete villages will be connected to the microgrid solar-energy system within the next three months. This was revealed by the Minister of Energy and Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, when he launched the pilot Microgrid Solar-Energy Project on Sunday (13 October).

The project is the first of its kind in the country, and R20 million has been set aside to complete the construction of the power plant. The two villages, both in the northern part of Vhembe, were identified after a team from the Minister's office visited the Niani area to determine suitable locations for this project. The area was chosen for its high exposure to sunlight, with relatively few cloudy days.

The project will comprise two sites: one constructed at Madimbo and another at Mabvete. Industrial solar panels and inverters will be used to harvest sunlight, which will then be distributed to the households through a wiring system and poles. There will also be a robust battery storage system to supplement energy during rainy or cloudy periods. The project will also include solar high-mast lights and free Wi-Fi at all public institutions within the two villages. The Wi-Fi will also be available to local residents at no cost.

When launching the pilot project, Dr Ramokgopa said it was important for South Africans to start believing in their own products and initiatives. He stated that the quality of solar radiation in the area should be used as a strong advantage for economic growth and community empowerment. “Projects of this nature are cheaper and more affordable because we generate energy from natural resources. The moment we start generating our own power, we are building a strong foundation for development, as no country can develop without electricity,” he said.

The minister indicated that his team will be on the ground this week to ensure that the project kick-starts immediately. He added that once the pilot project is completed, operational, and sustainable, it will also be implemented in various other parts of the country to alleviate the challenge of electricity supply.

Senior traditional leader Thovhele Vho Ratshibvumo II Rambuda welcomed the project, stating that it would bring development and job creation to the area. “On behalf of all the traditional leaders under the Rambuda Tribal Authority, we give permission to the Minister and his team to implement this life-changing project in our land. Besides benefiting from the solar-power supply, we are happy because our people will get jobs during the implementation of the project and continue working when maintenance work is needed.”

Musina Mayor Nkhanedzeni Mawela assured the minister and his team that the project equipment in both villages would be safe. “We are very privileged to be the first in the country to be afforded this opportunity to have this pilot project implemented in our municipality,” he said.

Date:18 October 2024

By:

Read: 292