Greening electricity generation in South Africa through wind energy

Globally, the electricity supply industry is undergoing marked changes. The quest for "green" power is a motivating factor for the use of New and Renewable Sources of Energy (NRSE) that are relatively more environmentally benign, for the generation of electricity. The conventional components of the electricity supply industry, forming the core of electricity utilities; generation, transmission and distribution are gradually being fragmented into separate entities, in some cases, to promote efficiency, effectiveness, enhance profitability and to boost corporate governance. Wind Energy is expected to make enormous contributions to the global electricity generation market, hitherto dominated by fossil fuels. A report jointly commissioned by Greenpeace International et al has indicated that wind energy is capable of supplying 10% of global power in 2020 - requiring a wind power capacity of about 150 TW per annum. In South Africa, the coastal areas and the Drakensburg Escarpment show the greatest potential for wind energy. Several windmills have been installed in the more and and commercial farming areas in South Africa mainly for pumping water. A prominent role-player in the generation of electric power is the Darling Wind Demonstration Farm. This farm has planned to generate about 5.2 MW of power initially, increasing to 10 MW eventually, for sale to the local municipality. This paper examines the status of the project, and its potential contribution to cleaner and sustainable environment in South Africa.