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CLEAN ENERGY, LOCAL JOBS, AND A JUST TRANSITION IN MOTION: Seriti Green’s Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Energy Facility reaches critical milestone
In a powerful demonstration of South Africa’s growing renewable energy momentum, Seriti Green’s Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Energy Facility in Bethal, Mpumalanga has reached a pivotal stage. As convoys of 335 metres in length carry turbines, blades and components from Richards Bay to the construction site this week, the vision of a cleaner, more inclusive energy future takes clearer shape – one turbine at a time.
This development marks the transition into the crucial installation phase of the project, where wind turbines will soon begin feeding renewable electricity into the grid. Once fully operational, the first phase of the facility is expected to offset a remarkable 500,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually – a tangible contribution toward national climate targets and a more secure energy future.
Empowering Communities While Powering the Grid
Beyond the technology and infrastructure lies a human story – one of opportunity, upskilling, and economic renewal. Over the last two years, more than 1,000 people have been employed through the project, with 58.6% coming directly from local communities. Through its digital jobseeker registration platform, Seriti Green has also achieved a 50/50 gender split across applications, reaffirming its commitment to equity and inclusivity.
“This project is not only about clean energy - it’s about creating opportunities, transforming communities, and securing South Africa’s energy future.” - Mike Teke, Chairman of Seriti Green and Group CEO of Seriti Resources
Importantly, this initiative represents more than just a shift in energy sources. It is also an example of a just energy transition in action. Former mineworkers are being retrained and placed into new roles within the wind energy sector, ensuring that those who powered South Africa’s past are not left behind in its low-carbon future.
Mike Teke, Group CEO of Seriti Resources and Chairman of Seriti Green, describes the project as a clear demonstration of the private sector’s leadership in advancing climate commitments and national energy resilience. “This future contribution to South Africa’s climate commitments will powerfully demonstrate our leadership in building a more diversified and sustainable energy landscape,” he said.
Meanwhile, engineering and logistics partner Vanguard has spent more than a year planning the complex transport operation, ensuring the safe and efficient delivery of turbines. Their expertise underscores the level of collaboration required to bring a large-scale renewable project to life.
As the first turbines begin arriving in Bethal, the Ummbila Emoyeni Wind Energy Facility becomes more than a construction site – it becomes a symbol of hope, innovation and the country’s commitment to a cleaner, more inclusive tomorrow.
