Volkswagen Group Africa has added 3 MW of solar power to its Kariega plant in the Eastern Cape, increasing the total renewable energy generation capacity to 5,9 MW. This includes the installation of 5 710 solar photovoltaic panels in the employees’ car park, bringing the total number of panels to 12 097.

The plant’s solar energy generation now contributes significantly to its operations, reducing reliance on grid electricity. The additional 3 MW of solar capacity is expected to save approximately 7 500 t of carbon dioxide emissions annually – equivalent to the energy consumption of 2 000 two-bedroom homes using standard electrical appliances.

Volkswagen has invested close to R100 million in solar infrastructure, increasing the share of renewable energy from 1,5% in 2018 to 17,1% in 2023. “Our renewable energy strategy is critical in reducing our carbon footprint and moving towards our goal of a zero impact factory by 2030,” said Ulrich Schwabe, Production Director at Volkswagen Group Africa. “With further solar installations planned, we aim to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and increase our renewable energy share to 23% by 2025.”

Application of this renewable energy has already led to a 54% reduction in electricity use per vehicle manufactured at the Kariega plant from 2010-2023, he added. “Energy efficiency is at the core of our sustainability efforts. Through the integration of solar power and continuous process improvements, we are significantly reducing energy consumption and our environmental impact.”

Volkswagen’s broader environmental strategy, which is in line with its global Go to Zero Environmental Strategy, aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030. The Kariega plant’s environmental performance has already improved by 57,7% since 2010 including reductions in energy consumption, water use, waste and carbon emissions.

With further expansion of solar energy capacity planned, Volkswagen continues to prioritise renewable energy as a key application in its efforts to achieve sustainability goals and decarbonise operations.