Grahamstown Energy Supply
Grahamstown's energy is currently supplied by Eskom. In the interests of energy sustainability, a range of alternative energy supplies are being explored locally in order to reduce Rhodes University's and Grahamstown's reliance on unsustainable fossil fuel resources.
Wind
Rhodes University and Makana Municipality support the proposed wind energy project at Waainek - the brainchild of . The project aims to bring energy security to Grahamstown in a sustainable manner. Recent data indicate that the site is undeniably viable, with a grid factor (or ‘availability’) of at least 35-40%, which means that the wind farm would be producing at full power for 35-40% of the time. Generally, a site is considered commercially viable if the grid factor is around 27-30%. If the wind farm is established, 26% of the profits will be ploughed back into local education through the Makana Winds of Change Trust - to be co-ordinated through Rhodes University. Depending on the number of wind turbines finally erected, this could bring R10 million or more directly into Grahamstown education every year.
- Waainek Wind Energy project: Find out more about this proposed wind energy projects in Grahamstown, in collaboration with Innovent.
- Environmental Impact Assessments: Current EIA updates.
Wood
The proposed establishment of a 3 MW wood-to-energy plant at the Old Power Station in the industrial area of Grahamstown, in collaboration with the Nollen Group and Working for Water, aims to to utilise felled invasive alien trees - a resource that is often left to rot. By removing invasive alien plants - which threaten biodiversity and threaten water resrouces - it is thus addressing a major ecological problem in South Africa. At the same time, it would create environmentally friendly fuel sources in an economically sound way, creating jobs and bringing new industry to a town which sees upwards of 70% unemployment. The EIA is currently underway.
- Environmental Impact Assessments: Current EIA update.
Biodiesel
A Rhodes University research project by Garth Cambray, in collaboration with the Biotechnology Department, led to development of a simple and effective technology for the production of an environmentally friendly biodiesel. Dr Cambray has worked with Rhodes University Food Services and with local industry to make use of used cooking oil (from Rhodes University kitchens and local businesses) and animal waste (which is often just discarded). The biodiesel generated is then used to run vehicles such as the University' tractors and lawnmowers. The annual Rhodes University lawnmower racehas become a popular local fixture, involving Biotechnology students and collaborating with the Grounds and Gardens section.
Vist the sustainable energy resources link.
Want to TAKE ACTION?
Go to the Rhodes University ENVIRONMENT front page. Suggestions/Questions? Contact environment(at)ru.ac.za
