Western Cape targets 50% renewable energy to power exports and meet EU low-carbon demand

The Western Cape government is betting on renewable energy to keep its exports competitive in carbon-conscious markets. Premier Alan Winde says the province could source about 50% of its energy from renewables within the next year, helping exporters meet European Union requirements for decarbonised goods. The push is part of the Western Cape Export Strategy 2035, which targets R408 billion in Cape Town exports, 200,000 new jobs, and 1,000 additional active exporters by 2035. Solar projects such as the Riversdale Solar Plant and the Helderhoop Solar and Storage Plant are expected to deliver cheaper, more reliable power and lower the carbon footprint of local products. The strategy also addresses trade frictions, including US tariffs and port efficiency concerns, with European markets filling some of the gap left by reduced US access. For the renewable target to translate into real trade advantages, exporters will need credible carbon accounting and grid capacity that can handle a higher clean energy share.