Longyuan South Africa highlights dedication to environmental impact and community development
Cape Town - Longyuan South Africa launched its 2023 Social Responsibility Report and Think Tank Report, in an intimate event on Friday at the Cape Town Marriott Hotel Crystal Towers.
Underscoring its unwavering commitment to sustainability and social impact in the communities it serves; the occasion attracted key stakeholders, industry experts, and local partners, all united in their vision for a sustainable future.
The Social Responsibility Report detailed Longyuan's significant initiatives focused on enhancing environmental stewardship, engaging communities, and fostering economic development.
This aligns seamlessly with South Africa's goals of expanding its renewable energy landscape while addressing pressing social needs, making clean energy accessible to all.
Among the list of keynote speakers were Kim Thomas from the South African Wind Energy Association, Shenh Bin from Longyuan, David Dai from Longyuan, Professor Michelle May from Think Tank and Professor Zhaoyi An from Think Tank among other guests.
Among the key highlights, Longyuan acknowledged its crucial role in supplying approximately 760 million kWh of clean electricity annually. This clean energy provision directly benefits around 300 000 local households, aiding in the country's collective efforts to reduce carbon emissions and ensure energy stability. The De Aar Wind Power Project, operational since 2017, stands as the largest wind farm in South Africa and has made an indelible mark on the nation's energy conservation initiatives.
Moreover, the report sheds light on Longyuan's profound impact on employment in the region. During the construction phase, the company provided over 700 jobs annually, and it continues to support local economies by offering over 100 permanent positions as the project progresses into its operational phase. In addition to job creation, the company has funded and managed four early childhood education centres, benefitting 469 school-age children since 2019, thus establishing a foundation for the community's future leaders.
Complementing the Social Responsibility Report is the Think Tank Report, which delves deep into the challenges and opportunities within the renewable energy sector. This comprehensive analysis offers strategic recommendations aimed at enhancing the sector's efficiency and expansion, aligning with Longyuan's mission to drive positive change and innovation in South Africa.
As the event unfolded, leaders shared insights into how Longyuan's initiatives resonate with broader environmental goals while also fostering grassroots community participation. Attendees left the venue with a renewed sense of hope and collaboration, eager to engage in ongoing dialogues around sustainable energy solutions.
Influencer Devon Saunders says he is impressed with the community development that came from the Longyuan South Africa Social Responsibility project.
“Recently, Longyuan SA invited a few of us to go experience a three day tour of what the project entails. We got to see a proper breakdown of what the Social Responsibility involves and I was chuffed to see how they kitted out an entire school with equipments etc for the school, everything a school needs to function, was provided by them.
“I am a man for the community, so it was heart warming to know that they are giving back to communities. They invest in educating local people into gaining the experience of becoming top engineers on the site today.”
The launch served as a beacon of progress for Longyuan South Africa, affirming its status as a pivotal player in driving the country’s renewable energy ambitions.
As South Africa seeks to enhance its energy resilience and transition to cleaner sources, Longyuan remains dedicated to its promise of promoting sustainable development and community welfare.
venecia.valentine@inl.co.za