The solar installation at the Cape Town market
The Cape Town Market in Epping has started the commissioning of a battery energy storage and demand management system (DMS).
The commissioning of the 3 MWh system follows the installation of more than 3 000 solar panels with a 1.4 MWh output.
One critical component of the installation is the DMS, which aims to secure stable electricity supply, including during loadshedding and peak demand periods.
The battery energy storage system allows charging during off-peak and solar production periods, with discharge in peak periods. It also includes standby generators (1.4 MVA) for peak shaving if other options are unavailable.
The system also includes a programmable logic controller and intelligent algorithms that automatically manage energy flow.
“This project marks a major milestone for one of the oldest and largest fresh produce markets in South Africa,” says City of Cape Town Economic Growth MMC James Vos.
“With over 5 500 producers delivering produce to market agents, who in turn sell to more than 8 000 registered buyers, Cape Town Market is a central roleplayer in the city’s food security.
“With the development of this system, the market’s extensive network of technology that maintains the quality of its products and services will be secured further.”
In addition to the new green energy system, the Epping market diverts around 90% of its waste from landfills.
Around half of the discarded produce is donated to Food on The Table, a nonprofit organisation that serves more than 100 soup kitchens.
The Epping market is owned by the City of Cape Town and leased to private company Cape Town Market.