Nordex Energy South Africa is honoured to be recognised as a leading employer and driver of economic development in the Eastern Cape, as highlighted by Honourable MEC Nonkqubela Pieters in her 2024-2025 policy speech. In a region facing high unemployment rates, this acknowledgment underscores the significant impact of its initiatives in creating vital employment opportunities and fostering economic growth.
The MEC acknowledged Nordex’s contributions, stating, “We are pleased to note that Nordex Energy South Africa will locally manufacture concrete tower sections in Humansdorp in the Eastern Cape. The construction of the plant is already underway, stimulating the local economy and fostering growth in the local supply chain through increased demand for raw materials and related goods and services, in turn benefiting local businesses and suppliers. The factory will create approximately 200 jobs during construction and employ around 350 people once manufacturing begins.”
Over the past year, the province has seen three wind farm projects move to full construction phase, adding 293 megawatts to the grid in 2024 and 2025, with an investment value of R6.1 billion. These projects have created an additional 2,000 job opportunities during the construction phase. With these developments, the Eastern Cape will soon have a total installed capacity of 1,802 megawatts from wind and solar farms, marking the first time the province will produce more electricity than it consumes during periods of wind and sun.
Similarly, President Ramaphosa, highlighted in his Opening of Parliament Address that South Africa has some of the best solar and wind resources globally, presenting an enormous opportunity for inclusive growth. The Eastern Cape is poised to be at the forefront of this renewable energy revolution, with plans to add three additional wind farm projects, totalling 547 megawatts and R13.7 billion in investment, over the next year.
“We remain committed to contributing positively to the Eastern Cape’s economic landscape, ensuring that our efforts continue to benefit the people and the region as a whole,” concluded David Moncasi Hortet, Head of Sales for Africa at Nordex Energy South Africa.