Liberty Two Degrees (L2D) has claimed South Africa’s largest registered rooftop solar installation at its super regional asset, Eastgate Shopping Centre.
Eastgate’s sustainability journey began in 2020 with the first phase of its solar system commissioned which consisted of a 1MW (AC) or 1.219MWp solar power installation which resulted in an energy saving of 1 910 MWh during 2023.
Since then, as part of its second phase, the mall has actively expanded its renewable energy capacity with the addition of a 5MW (AC) or 5.997MWp solar power installation.
In total, Eastgate has almost 13 675 solar panels equating to 35.04% of the energy required to run its daily load, generated through solar energy. Combined, both phases will generate a total of 6MW (AC) or 7.216MWp in solar power.
The solar installation covers most of the available mall roof space, an area of approximately 28 100m2.
“This innovation in renewable energy generation at Eastgate is testament to L2D’s position in environmental leadership. L2D is proud to lead many firsts in this space,” comments Brian Unsted, L2D Sustainability Lead.
As part of this development, new structural steel subframes had to be constructed on the existing rooftop to retain the current rooftop parking. The new roof structure has no sheeting or launder system with the panels sitting directly on steel purlins allowing water to pass through the roof. The current stormwater and drainage system continues to function with the waterproofing barrier on the existing roof level.
“This is a significant achievement attributable to a collective effort from our property team, professional consultants, service providers as well as through our tenants’ support and co-operation. L2D prides itself on collaborating with the best in the industry to achieve its Net Zero Carbon targets. What also makes this achievement noteworthy is the fact that due to the reduced reliance on the grid, Eastgate will see an estimated reduction of 10,9 tons of CO² emissions per year, for both phase one and two combined. We are very proud to have achieved this milestone towards L2D’s Net Zero Carbon journey,” says Melinda Isaacs, L2D’s Development Executive.
The project is scheduled for completion during Q3 2024 with the professional consultant and contract partners including SOLINK, Solareff, Concor Construction, Origin Project Managers, Zutari, Batley Partners Architects, Acost Quantity Surveyors, MNS Engineering and Comprac.
