Sustainable cycles
Sustainable Living, Thriving Ecosystems
Velddrif Water & Power represents an integrated circular approach in which energy and water work hand in hand. The wastewater from the desalination process is treated in an environmentally friendly manner and partially reused in a closed system. The resulting residual energy (e.g., pressure energy from the desalination process) is fed back into the power supply.
This combination of energy efficiency, water recycling and digital control makes Velddrif Water & Power to a best practice model for sustainable resource use.
Innovative circular solutions include
- Use of residual heat for industrial processes
- Reuse of demineralized water in electrolysis
- Feeding surplus energy into the regional smart grid
- CO₂-neutral pumping stations through self-supply with solar power
- Environmentally friendly recirculation of brine in controlled concentrations
Enhancing quality of life
Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
Sustainability is at the core of Velddrif Water & Power. The entire project is designed to ensure harmony between the environment, economy, and society.
Key environmental measures
- Use of renewable energy in all operational processes
- Environmentally sound treatment and return of brine to the sea
- Use of environmentally friendly building materials with a low CO₂ footprint
- Protection of coastal and marine ecosystems through continuous monitoring
- Reforestation and greening programs along supply routes
- Minimizing land consumption through multiple use of existing areas
Velddrif Water & Power is guided by international standards such as ESG criteria (Environmental, Social , Governance) and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The project makes a measurable contribution to the goals of “Clean Water and Sanitation ” (SDG 6) and “Affordable and Clean Energy” (SDG 7).
Infrastructure and Connections
Junction in the GreenLink System
Velddrif Water & Power is directly integrated into the GreenLink corridor. This connection carries electricity, water, hydrogen, and data in both directions—from the Northern Cape to the West Coast.
This makes Velddrif Water & Power into a strategic infrastructure hub that
- Receives and processes energy from KTE.energy,
- Water from the sea is desalinated and transported inland,
- and at the same time stabilizes local supply systems.
This linking of energy, water, and data flows creates regional self-sufficiency and international connectivity — an infrastructural backbone for South Africa’s green economy.
State-of-the-art Systems
Technology and Digitalization
Velddrif Water & Power relies on state-of-the-art digital monitoring systems for transparent and efficient operations. Sensors, automation, and artificial intelligence ensure maximum reliability and resource efficiency.
Technological features
- Real-time monitoring of water quality, energy consumption and CO₂ footprint
- AI-supported control of pumping and energy systems
- Use of drones to inspect facilities and routes
- Digital twins for simulation and optimization
- Automated maintenance processes and early warning systems
This intelligent integration of digital systems enables fully data-driven control of the entire infrastructure , which reduces operating costs and maximizes supply security.
Development Stimulus
Economic and Social Impact
Economic Impact
- Up to 2,000 direct and indirect jobs during construction and operation phases
- Development of local supply chains (mechanical engineering, logistics, construction, maintenance)
- Establishment of training centers for water and energy technology
- Creation of new commercial and industrial areas along the GreenLink axis
- Local value creation through energy and water sales
Social Impact
- Safe drinking water supply for tens of thousands of people
- Stable energy supply for households, businesses and public institutions
- Educational programs in cooperation with regional schools and universities
- Promoting health through clean water and stable infrastructure
- Strengthening social structures through local employment and infrastructure investments
