The Vergelegen wine estate, situated in Somerset West and renowned for its extensive sustainability efforts, has achieved another significant milestone in environmental stewardship and cost efficiency. The estate recently completed the installation of a solar power facility that has effectively liberated it from reliance on the conventional power grid. This forward-looking investment encompasses the deployment of six solar arrays, comprising a total of 500 solar panels, covering an impressive area of 1400 square meters.
In addition to these solar panels, the estate has also incorporated three inverters and a robust one-megawatt battery system. This comprehensive setup ensures that even during the grape harvest season, when sunlight may be scarce, the winery can continue its operations by drawing power from the battery.
Eben Olderwagen, the environmental project manager at Vergelegen, emphasized the environmental benefits of this initiative, stating, “The exact reduction in carbon emissions will become evident over time, but what is certain is that the entire electricity bill for the cellar will be eliminated, as the winery will now function entirely on solar energy. Furthermore, we anticipate significant savings on diesel costs and a reduction in emissions associated with generator use during power outages.”
Moreover, any surplus energy generated by the winery will be fed back into the local power grid, earning credits that will translate into cost savings on electricity bills for the entire estate.
Luke O’Cuinneagain, the winemaker at Vergelegen, expressed his perspective, saying, “I firmly believe that sustainability and winemaking are interconnected. The decision to install solar panels at our winery is not merely a pragmatic one; it is a declaration of our unwavering commitment to the environment and to the production of exceptional wines. This initiative is a ‘win-win’ situation for our winery and for the planet we cherish.”
