Eskom starts decommissioning Klipheuwel research facility

State-owned Eskom has started decommissioning the first turbine at its Klipheuwel wind farm, in the Western Cape.

For the past 13 years, the wind farm served as a valuable research facility for wind energy technology and contributed 3 MW to the Eskom plant mix. 
 
With the 100 MW Sere wind farm, also in the Western Cape, delivering results, Eskom has decided to decommission the three wind turbines at Klipheuwel.
 
One of the turbines will be used for practical training at the Bellville-based South African Renewable Technology Centre – the only renewables training facility in South Africa.

There will be an opportunity for learning to continue and to broaden the skills base in South Africa and help enable development in the industry.
 
The remainder of the wind farm – land and two Vestas wind turbines – will be disposed of.