Solar Power and Energy Storage Integration
The Cape Town Market in Epping has commenced the commissioning of an integrated battery energy storage and demand management system (DMS).
This system, boasting a capacity of 3 MWh, follows the prior installation of over 3,000 solar panels, capable of producing 1.4 MWh of electricity.
Ensuring Reliable Power Supply
A crucial element of this installation is the DMS, designed to ensure a stable electricity supply for the market, even during periods of load shedding and peak demand.
The battery energy storage system allows for efficient energy management by charging during off-peak hours and when solar panels are producing excess energy.
The stored energy is then discharged during peak demand periods, reducing strain on the grid and ensuring uninterrupted operations.
Backup Power for Peak Demand
In addition to the battery storage, the system includes standby generators with a capacity of 1.4 MVA. These generators provide backup power during peak demand situations when other options are unavailable, ensuring continuous operations at the market.
The system incorporates a programmable logic controller and sophisticated algorithms to automatically manage the flow of energy. This optimization ensures efficient energy usage, maximizing the benefits of solar power and battery storage.
A Milestone for Food Security in Cape Town
James Vos, the City of Cape Town’s Economic Growth MMC, hailed the project as a significant achievement for one of South Africa’s oldest and largest fresh produce markets. He emphasized the market’s pivotal role in the city’s food security, with over 5,500 producers supplying produce to more than 8,000 registered buyers.
Vos further emphasized that the new energy system will reinforce the market’s extensive technology network, which is instrumental in maintaining the quality of products and services offered at the market.
Waste Reduction and Community Support
Beyond its green energy initiative, the Epping market is committed to sustainability by diverting approximately 90% of its waste from landfills. About half of the discarded produce is donated to Food on The Table, a non-profit organization that serves over 100 soup kitchens in the community.
The Epping market is owned by the City of Cape Town and leased to Cape Town Market, a private company. This successful public-private partnership demonstrates a commitment to both environmental sustainability and community well-being.