Second INSTALMENT of Northern Cape IPP’s Roadshow Illuminates Community Benefits

Highlighting the benefits of collaboration for the upliftment of communities within the Pixley ka Seme Municipal District, a consortium of Northern Cape Independent Power Producers (IPPs) and Community Trust Companies embarked on their second annual roadshow. This initiative, which was extended to include a fourth day this year, aimed to create awareness of the impacts of the IPPs’ economic development programmes on beneficiaries across a number of the District’s communities.

Following last year’s successful inaugural event, the roadshow saw enhanced participation from local government stakeholders and the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Independent Power Producers Office (IPPO), spearheaded by Mr. Lazarus Mahlangu from the Economic Development Department. The delegation visited community beneficiaries across Britstown, Hanover, Philipstown, and De Aar, demonstrating the tangible benefits of these programmes.

De Aar Solar Power showcased its contributions by taking the IPPO representative to Foundation for Alcohol Related Research (FARR) in Britstown and bed and breakfast establishment, Garden Cottage in De Aar. FARR, a notable Socio-Economic Development beneficiary, and Garden Cottage, an Enterprise Development beneficiary, exemplified the substantial support provided by the solar plant, including significant refurbishments.

Having taken place from 23 to 26 April, the roadshow aimed to inform attendees about the economic development strategies set for the remainder of 2024 and early 2025. Attracting close on 500 participants, the event featured multiple sessions that detailed the funding process and illustrated the collaborative efforts of the IPPs’ to foster socio-economic growth within the district.

The roadshow’s comprehensive engagement and direct community interactions, facilitated by the physical presence of the IPPO representative, underscored a commitment to transparency and community engagement.

Alongside De Aar Solar Power, Solar Capital De Aar 1, Lilitha Solar, Mulilo, and Noupoort Wind Farm participated, with four community trusts also involved: Sibona Ilanga Community Trust, Wind and Solar Mulilo Community Trust, Solar Capital De Aar 1 Community Trust, and Solar Capital De Aar 3 Community Trust.