Volkswagen Group Africa has made significant strides in its renewable energy initiatives, commissioning an additional 3 megawatts of solar power at its Kariega manufacturing plant in South Africa. This brings the plant’s total solar energy capacity to 5.9 MW, which is enough to power around 2 000 two-bedroom homes with electrical appliances and geysers.
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The move is part of the company’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and increase the share of renewable energy in its operations. Volkswagen has now installed a total of 12 097 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels across the site, with 5 710 of these newly added to the employee car park. The first phase of the solar installation project began two years ago, with PV panels placed on the roofs of the Engine Plant and Final Assembly building. More panels are planned for the next phase of expansion.
The company has invested nearly R100 million in solar energy to date, and as of 2023, renewable energy accounts for 17.1% of the plant’s total energy consumption, a significant increase from just 1.5% in 2018. This reduction in reliance on grid electricity not only helps to lower operational costs but also significantly reduces the plant’s carbon emissions—an estimated 7 500 tonnes of CO₂ are saved annually due to the solar energy system.
Volkswagen Group Africa’s commitment to sustainability is in line with its broader environmental goals. Ulrich Schwabe, the plant’s Production Director, highlighted the company’s vision of becoming a “Zero Impact Factory” by 2030. This goal is supported by the Group’s global “Go To Zero” strategy, which aims for carbon neutrality in line with the Paris Agreement. By 2025, the Kariega plant is projected to source 23% of its energy from renewable sources.
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Since 2010, the plant has achieved a 54% reduction in electricity usage per vehicle produced, thanks to energy efficiency measures and a strong focus on demand-side management. Alongside energy savings, Volkswagen has improved its environmental performance across several metrics, including water use, waste management, and solvent emissions, positioning the Kariega plant as a leader in automotive manufacturing sustainability.
