Maravi

‘Africa has potential to invest in wind energy'

‘Africa has potential to invest in wind energy'
By Edwin Mbulo in Livingstone
Tue 21 Feb. 2012, 11:59 CAT

AFRICAN countries have the will to invest in renewable energy but lack the understanding of how the system works, says a business development expert.

In an interview during the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) meeting at Zambezi Sun last Tuesday, Clive Pillay, who is Consolidated Power Projects (CONCO) business development director based in South Africa, said Africa has the potential to invest in wind energy.

"We at CONCO would like to be a catalyst in the development of Africa's electric infrastructure. We are currently at US$72 billion in invested infrastructures in Africa, of which US$19 billion goes into electrical infrastructure. We have just completed the Darling Wind Farm which is 4 x 1.3 MW turbines in South Africa and we believe countries have the will to invest in renewable energy but lack the understanding of how the system works," Pillay said.

He said South Africa has what is known as window periods for the construction of wind farms for renewable energy.

"Out of the five window periods, one which has just been concluded, CONCO stands 60 to 70 per cent chances of getting major wind farm projects due to our experience," Pillay said.

He said his company which has offices in Zambia and mainly deals in the construction of electricity sub-stations was willing to leverage its resources and relationships to find optimal solutions for clients, including funding for bankable projects.

"We are a market leader in providing turnkey solutions in high voltage substations, overhead lines, advanced protection and automation schemes, renewable energy and auditing, maintenance and refurbishment projects. We have proven experience in skill building and mentoring local talent," he said.

Pillay said CONCO was established in 1986 and has managed to build a formidable reputation as a leading high voltage construction company.

Labels: ENERGY

posted by MrK @ 4:29 PM