Ranked as the 10th largest wind facility in South Africa, the Gouda Wind Farm stands out with a generation capacity of 138 MW, contributing a notable 0.19% to the national energy grid. Commissioned in 2015 and operated by Acciona Energy SA Global (Pty) Ltd, this facility embodies the potential of wind energy in a country where coal remains the dominant fuel source. The wind farm utilizes advanced turbine technology designed to harness the robust winds typical of the Western Cape region, ensuring efficient energy generation. Positioned strategically near the Gouda Wind Facility, which has a capacity of 135.5 MW, Gouda Wind Farm is part of a growing cluster of renewable energy projects that are gradually reshaping South Africa's energy landscape. This proximity not only enhances grid reliability but also exemplifies the synergy between neighboring plants in driving the transition towards greener energy sources. In the broader context of South Africa's energy profile, which boasts a total of 232 plants and a combined capacity of 71,899 MW, Gouda Wind Farm's contribution is modest yet significant, showcasing the increasing role of renewables in a predominantly coal-based system. The facility’s capacity also compares favorably against the national average, indicating a shift towards diversifying energy sources. As the South African government intensifies its efforts to boost renewable energy generation, Gouda Wind Farm stands as a beacon of hope, indicating the country’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The facility not only contributes to energy security but also aligns with global trends towards reducing carbon emissions, making it a critical player in the green energy narrative of South Africa.
11 years old
South Africa, Africa
- Primary Fuel Type
- Wind
- Energy Source
- Renewable
- Country
South Africa- Continent
- Africa
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Wind power generation harnesses the kinetic energy of wind to produce electricity, making it one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources globally. This process begins with wind turbines, which consist of large blades mounted on a tower. As the wind blows, it causes the blades to rotate, transforming the wind's kinetic energy into mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is then converted into electrical energy through a generator connected to the turbine. The efficiency of wind turbines has significantly improved over the past decades, with modern designs capable of generating power even at low wind speeds.
Help us improve our database by reporting any corrections or updates. Your contribution helps keep our global power plant data accurate and up-to-date.