Serengeti Energy, is pleased to announce significant advancements in the construction of the 5MW run-off-river Boston hydro project, a pioneering initiative in South Africa’s renewable energy landscape. We are excited about the potential of the Boston hydro project to contribute to a more sustainable energy future for South Africa and beyond. Since breaking ground in October 2023, the Boston hydro project has made remarkable progress, our Chief Technical Officer Brian Brooks shares the latest developments:
Current Status of the Project:
The construction works is being led by Kwa Mhlanga Construction. The initial groundwork and site preparation, including access roads and infrastructure installation have been completed. The next phase involves the construction of the power plant itself, which is taking shape along the banks of the Ash River within the Lesotho Highlands Water Scheme. The Andritz/Indar consortium has been appointed to supply the turbine and generator components.
Integration of Community Engagement:
Community engagement has been a cornerstone of our approach from the outset. We have worked closely with local authorities, communities, and relevant stakeholders to ensure transparency and build positive relationships as well as ongoing dialogue to address any concerns or feedback. Hiring locally is a primary objective of the project, providing employment opportunities for the surrounding communities that will span from the construction phase to commercial operations. From skilled labor to support staff, we recruited extensively from the region, contributing to economic empowerment and sustainable development including creating opportunities for skills development through our CSR activities.
Adherence to Environmental and Social Standards:
As a responsible developer, Serengeti Energy is committed to upholding the highest standards of environmental and social performance. Throughout the construction process, we adhere to the local legislations as well as the IFC – International Finance Corporation standards, which set stringent guidelines for sustainability and social impact management. Stringent safety protocols and measures have also been implemented to protect workers and contractors, ensuring a safe working environment, and minimizing the risk of accidents or environmental incidents.
The Boston hydro project is poised to deliver tangible benefits to both the environment and the economy. With an annual output of 30GWh of clean electricity, the project will not only contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also provide a reliable source of power to the South African grid.