DARLING SUSTAINABLE ENERGY AND EMPLOYMENT SCHEME (DARLING S E E S)

The OELSNER GROUP in Darling has presented a vision to develop a large scheme in the field of renewable energy applications, which will serve as a basis for detailed analysis and invites input from all parties which may have an interest, or will possibly be affected by the scheme. It consists of the following components:

A feasibility study for a 10 MW wind farm using the modern desingn of megawatt class wind turbines on Moedmaag Koppie, 12 km West of Darling has been concluded. The study was undertaken by the OELSNER GROUP in close co-operation with ESKOM and the support of the Danish Cooperation for Environment and Development "DANCED".

A solar hot water system for 450 sub economic houses (first phase) is in planning stage, to be followed by a solar cooker demonstration project.
A Rutland 913 (220 W) wind charger will be installed and tested on a domestic property in Darling for comparison of Photo Voltaic, Solar-, and Wind power for battery charging-, bore hole pumping- and electric farm fencing systems on its own and in combination with diesel generation.
In addition a test installation of a Proven 2,5 kW wind turbine generator on its own and as hybrid system Solar, Photo Voltaic, Diesel is planned on the same site, on which an ecological designed domestic dwelling will be created and the garden layout will accommodate indigenous plants, biofeeding and water saving devices.
Biogas-extraction from local refuse disposal is another proposition and in addition there are project extensions planned which will cover technical fields as:

Energy efficiency in commerce and industry - Rational use of energy in buildings - Energy saving products and appliances - Electric storage systems - Net-metering Systems - Desalination plants powered by renewable energy.
In October 1999 a feasibility study will commence in five rural communities in the West Coast area to investigate the electrification by means of wind diesel hybrid generation plants and mini grid systems.
Finally and most important a feasibility study is in progress for the establishment of an Industrial Park on 45 000 m2 of industrial land for small to medium industries, with activities, which are, if possible related to sustainable energy technologies and will include a wind turbine test field.

One of the main targets of the Industrial Park is the basic training and employment of local residents encompassing trades as builders, electricians, plumbers, mechanics, fitters, turners and other associated trades. Buildings to accomodate guests, trainees and students are planned with a kitchen and canteen facility, where training for students in the catering and tourism business can be given.
An additional bonus is that Darling is situated in one of the Spatial Development Areas of South Africa and representations to Government are in process, that Darling qualifies for a possible government implemented tax holiday scheme and financially attractive relocation benefits.

The scheme will attract tourists, students and a large variety of interested parties to come to Darling and see the realisation and effectiveness of Renewable Energy Technology applications.

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