SERITI GREEN: Leading South Africa’s Energy Reboot

In South Africa, the winds of change are picking up speed – literally and figuratively – thanks to the pioneering work of Seriti Green. Born from a bold ambition to help transition South Africa from its coal-reliant past into a cleaner, greener, and more inclusive future, this independent power producer (IPP) is now at the forefront of renewable energy development across the country. A subsidiary of Seriti Resources, a responsible coal producer with a strong emphasis on transformation, Seriti Green is more than just a business venture; it is a statement of intent.

Established in 2021 after the acquisition of Windlab Africa, Seriti Green represents Seriti Resources’ commitment to climate resilience and a just energy transition. With over a decade of experience in wind energy, the company has hit the ground running, spearheading impactful renewable initiatives designed to reshape South Africa’s energy landscape.

The company’s objective is simple, but vital: develop significant gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by the end of the decade. The process, however, is anything but simple. In a country that has infamously grappled with load shedding, ageing infrastructure, and environmental concerns, Seriti Green has emerged as a rare beacon of hope, already translating bold rhetoric into tangible results.

CEO Peter Venn, a seasoned energy sector leader, has been instrumental in steering the ship, assembling a talented team of engineers, developers, and strategists, and championing community-focused energy development. The company’s holistic approach to sustainability is fast becoming a benchmark for the region, combining economic advancement with ecological preservation and social equity.

WIND POWER TRAILBLAZERS

In Mpumalanga, the coal heartland of South Africa, Seriti Green is planting the seeds of long-term change through its flagship project, Ummbila Emoyeni. Translating to ‘wind of the trees’ in isiZulu, this development is poised to be the largest wind farm in Africa. It is also a crucial component of the country’s broader energy transformation.

Having reached financial close in late 2023, the first phase of the project will see 155 MW of renewable energy generated and wheeled through the national grid directly to Seriti Resources’ coal mining operations, dramatically reducing emissions by approximately 5.1 million tonnes annually.

“The financial close of this project illustrates that we don’t just see a world of new possibilities; we’re actively building it one green electron at a time,” said Venn.

The significance of Ummbila Emoyeni stretches far beyond its impressive output. It represents the transition in real time – moving from fossil fuels to renewables, while ensuring people are not left behind. Located in a province historically dependent on coal jobs, the project is already injecting new life into local communities.

“Seriti Green is delighted with the progress of the project. Of the over 1000 people employed at the Wind Energy Facility, 586 people (58.6%) come from local communities. Digitally, Seriti Green has registered over 17,000 jobseekers, achieving a 50/50 gender split. This highlights our commitment to fostering diversity while providing much-needed employment opportunities,” Venn explained.

“Seriti Green is also transitioning former mine staff into renewable energy roles, providing opportunities for individuals to transfer their skills into new industries. This innovative approach ensures that those who have spent years powering South Africa’s energy sector can continue to play a key role in its sustainable future,” the company added.     

Seriti Green is making it clear that the Just Energy Transition is not simply a slogan. It is a framework that must uplift communities, preserve livelihoods, and create new avenues for prosperity.

Chairman of Seriti Green and CEO of Seriti Resources, Mike Teke echoes this sentiment: “As someone deeply connected to Mpumalanga and its people, I have seen first-hand the need for a Just Energy Transition. This is not only about sustainable energy; it’s about creating a future that is inclusive and prosperous for our communities. We are determined to honour the trust placed in us by delivering on our promise to power South Africa’s future.”

CREATING A BLUEPRINT

What sets Ummbila Emoyeni apart is its blueprint potential. As the first wind project in a historically coal-heavy province, the development could serve as a model for similar transitions in other regions. With environmental concerns rising and pressure mounting on Eskom to reduce its dependency on coal, private-sector-led renewable developments like this are vital.

“Our commitment to the Just Energy Transition extends beyond energy generation. We are creating jobs, training the next generation of renewable energy professionals, and ensuring that our communities benefit directly from this transformation. Dignity through work is a cornerstone of what we aim to achieve. This isn’t just about building a wind farm. It’s about creating a blueprint for a greener, more inclusive South Africa, where energy development respects the land and its people,” said Venn.

The company’s transparency and accountability efforts, paired with genuine community engagement, have not gone unnoticed. As renewables become more central to national energy policy, Seriti Green is already ahead of the curve.

“The construction of the first wind farm in Mpumalanga is a milestone we are immensely proud of, but this is just the beginning. The project will pave the way for 4GW of renewable energy capacity by 2027, contributing to national energy security while empowering local communities,” said Teke.

LONG-TERM VISION

South Africa now has a Renewable Energy Masterplan (SAREM), a long-awaited strategy aiming to stimulate industrial development through clean energy. It places a strong emphasis on domestic supply chains, community participation, and job creation. In that context, Seriti Green is already delivering.

“Seriti Green is building a future where renewable energy is the foundation of economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social progress. We are committed to walking this path with transparency, respect, and a shared vision for a greener, more inclusive South Africa,” said Venn.

Teke added: “This future contribution to South Africa’s climate commitments will powerfully demonstrate our leadership in building a more diversified and sustainable energy landscape. The project will also bolster the nation’s energy security by increasing generation capacity, contributing to a more stable and secure electricity supply.”

As government support increases and international finance flows toward green infrastructure, Seriti Green is primed to be a central player. The ability to develop clean energy while maintaining a social licence to operate – especially in areas previously reliant on fossil fuel industries – is a rare skill, and Seriti Green is proving adept.

“Together, we are creating something monumental – for the people of Mpumalanga, for South Africa, and for the generations that will follow. For that, we are profoundly grateful to all who share this journey with us,” said Teke.

From a new entrant to a national leader in under three years, Seriti Green is not just chasing the wind – it is harnessing it, with purpose, for the benefit of all South Africans.