The first phase of a South African wind farm cluster has entered commercial operation, marking a tangible step in the country's Just Energy Transition. The Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Farm Phase one, developed by Seriti Green and powered by 25 Goldwind GWH182-6.2 MW smart turbines, has a total capacity of 155 MW. With a rotor diameter of 183.5 metres, it features the largest rotor diameter among all operational wind projects in South Africa to date.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Chinese Ambassador to South Africa Wu Peng, Seriti Resources Group CEO Mike Teke and Seriti Green CEO Peter Venn, Goldwind Deputy Chairman and President Cao Zhigang and Business Vice President Wang Hai, alongside national, provincial and local government officials and community leaders.
The Ummbila complex is designed as an integrated renewable hub comprising 750 MW wind, 150 MW solar PV and 800 MWh energy storage. Following Phase one commissioning, construction of Phases two and three is underway, with full completion targeted for 2027 to establish the cluster as a cornerstone of South Africa's clean energy transition.
President Ramaphosa hailed the project as a pivotal milestone for South Africa's Just Energy Transition and national sustainable development agenda. He commended Goldwind as the wind turbine solution provider behind the project's successful delivery, stating that the landmark facility is steering the country's economy and society toward a low-carbon, climate-resilient path and helping fulfil South Africa's domestic and international sustainability commitments.
Chinese Ambassador to South Africa Wu Peng congratulated the project on its milestone success, noting that this undertaking stands as a compelling testament to pragmatic and fruitful China-South Africa bilateral collaboration.
Peter Venn, CEO, Seriti Green, affirmed Goldwind's vital role in the project's success. "Goldwind has been our indispensable long-term partner, and we look forward to deepening cooperation on future project phases," he commented.
During the ceremony, Goldwind and Seriti Green also signed the cooperation agreement for Phase 4, further deepening their long-term strategic partnership.
Speaking at the ceremony, Goldwind Deputy Chairman and President Cao Zhigang thanked the South African government, the Chinese Embassy, Seriti Green and all partners. "Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Farm Phase One achieving commercial operation ahead of schedule is proof of the trust and open collaboration we have built. This is not just a wind farm - it is a strategic project that delivers reliable power, drives infrastructure investment, creates local jobs and advances community development. We are delivering more than clean energy; we are delivering a long-term commitment rooted in South Africa."
