South Africa's growing economy has put huge strain on electricity usage. South Africa's electricity demand has been increasing at 15% a year, placing considerable strain on existing infrastructure. "We would like to work together with Eskom's new task team to aid in load reduction. This will ensure that our economy does not suffer loss from unnecessary load-shedding," says Andile Dlamini Toyota spokesperson.
Renewable energy is a reliable alternative to the traditional kind. In 2006, over 18% of global final energy came from renewables. By the end of 2008, Toyota will have installed 270 solar panels into its Durban plant. The company's decision to install solar panels will enable them to operate at full capacity while also reducing demand on Eskom.
Where previously Toyota's Prospecton plant in Durban used electricity and gas to heat water, it will now use energy converted from the sun as a source of heat. Solar panels collect and convert energy from the sun into energy and heat that is then used by nearby buildings.
Toyota's renewable energy project began in 2006 with the installation of 44X2,5m2 panels and the second phase was completed in June 2007 when 150 panels were installed. In the third phase of this project, Toyota will install a further 120 panels. While the project has cost Toyota R3.5 million, the company expects to save R95 000 per month on energy costs when the project is completed in the next few months. "Not only is this a significant financial saving, but it shows that Toyota is supportive of Eskom's energy saving initiative," comments Dlamini.
The car manufacturer will also reduce carbon dioxide released to the atmosphere by approximately 1350 tons per annum. Environmental impact of electricity use in South Africa is a concern which big electricity users like Toyota need to help address. Dlamini confirms, "Our solar power initiative is done with the environment in mind."
Commenting to Business Report, Andrew Atzinger, spokesperson for Eskom highlighted, "Until we have a culture where we pull together for the benefit of the economy...and each other, we would not expect there to be significant savings." Toyota's solar panel initiative will encourage other large companies to tackle the power-shortage in innovative ways.
Mediaweb is South Africa's wide release information service to the SA media, delivering the latest news within specific industry categories. Run by journalists, the service is driven by quality information that links journalists to usable content to help with pressured deadlines. Operating for over 8 years it also acts as a portal for general news, freelance and fulltime employment, and courses. To learn more, go to http://www.mediaweb.co.za
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Bryony_Whitehead
