Cape Town, a city renowned for its natural beauty and rich history, has been making waves in the sustainable energy sector. The city has recently emerged as a leader in energy performance, with 69 of its municipal assets displaying energy performance certificates (EPCs). This achievement brings Cape Town closer to compliance with the SANS 1544:2014 regulation and sets a powerful example for other municipalities across South Africa.
Strides towards Sustainable Energy Practices
Within a short span of 18 months since the project’s inception in 2021, Cape Town has made significant progress in understanding and managing energy usage in its facilities. The implementation of the SmartFacility meter, which continuously monitors energy usage within the city’s assets, has been pivotal in ensuring optimal performance management.
Notably, almost 90% of the buildings with an EPC received a D-grade or better, indicating that their energy use is on par or superior to the benchmark. The municipality has also embraced alternative energy sources, with six buildings now utilizing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and 12 buildings equipped with diesel generators for backup electricity during power outages and load-shedding events.
A Focus on Net-Zero Carbon
Cape Town’s focus now shifts towards transitioning from EPCs to net-zero carbon municipal buildings by 2030. This ambitious goal will be achieved through radical energy efficiency measures and further implementation of solar PV systems in municipal assets. This effort will encourage building and facility managers to continuously improve building performance while contributing to the city’s aim to become carbon neutral by 2050.
Recognition and Inspiration
Cape Town’s mayoral committee member for energy, Councillor Beverley van Reenen, expressed her gratitude towards Sustainable Energy Markets team for their success in achieving the EPC certificates. She emphasized her eagerness to continue progressing towards the municipality’s carbon-neutral and net-zero carbon objectives.
Cape Town’s achievements and dedication serve as an inspiration to municipalities worldwide, proving that it is possible to transition to a more sustainable future while preserving the beauty and heritage of the city. The city’s achievements are a testament to the power of collaboration, determination, and innovative thinking in overcoming the challenges posed by climate change and setting the stage for a brighter, more sustainable future.
The Road Ahead
As Cape Town continues to expand its efforts, nearly 50 additional assets have been identified as potentially requiring EPCs. The city’s unwavering commitment to energy efficiency, alternative energy sources, and carbon reduction will continue to lead the way, demonstrating the tangible benefits of sustainable energy practices in municipal assets.
