Construction has begun on what will become South Africa's largest wind farm, a 400MW project near Swellendam that promises to boost renewable energy capacity while testing new conservation strategies to protect threatened bird species , Cape town Etc reports.
Developed by Red Rocket Energy, the Overberg Wind Energy Farm WEF will consist of 63 turbines positioned 12km west of Swellendam, bordering ecologically sensitive renosterveld and lowland fynbos.
While the project marks progress in South Africa's shift away from fossil fuels, conservationists warn that the development could endanger several rare bird species, including the critically endangered black harrier - southern Africa's rarest endemic raptor. There are currently fewer than 1 300 of these birds left in the wild, making them rarer than rhinos.
Balancing energy needs and wildlife protectionThe Overberg Renosterveld Trust ORT, alongside HawkWatch International and BirdLife South Africa, has been working with developers to implement mitigation measures aimed at reducing bird fatalities.
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Patterned blades will be installed on all turbines to improve bird visibility, with design guided by expert input and current research.