Solar Panels to be installed on V&A waterfront rooftops - Leading Construction and Building Group

To recognise businesses that have achieved full compliance with the heritage standards of Heritage South Africa, Heritage Platinum status is awarded through the combined scoring of a business’s environmental performance and community involvement, and must achieve an overall score of at least 94% in these areas. The V&A Waterfront received its first heritage status rating in 2012 and has steadily progressed to Platinum status this year, becoming one of only four establishments in the Western Cape to have Platinum Heritage status.

In addition to their new Platinum Heritage status, the V&A Waterfront is also determined to look to the future. Announced today, more than 7 000 square metres of solar panels will soon be installed on the roofs of buildings across the V&A Waterfront, significantly reducing the property’s dependence on the electrical grid. The R20 millions Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Project will conserve an estimated 1 721 956 kWh annually, or the equivalent of the energy needed to power 574 four-person households.

“Our environment is a fragile one and we owe it to future generations to adopt renewable energy resources. Our new solar infrastructure means we can significantly reduce our environmental footprint and draw less power from the grid. This translates into a tangible benefit for residents of Cape Town as there will be more power available for them, and it makes good business sense for us too” says David Green, CEO of the V&A Waterfront.

Beginning in August 2015 and scheduled for completion by end 2015 or early 2016, PV panels will be installed by Sustainable Power Solutions on the roofs of the Watershed, the Breakwater, the Clock Tower, Granger Bay, Two Oceans Aquarium, Ports Edge, West Quay and Portswood House. The result is a reduction in total electrical consumption of the building.