IN working towards promoting a low-carbon future that prioritises wind energy, the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) and the Bundesverband Windenergie e.V (BWE) have entered a memorandum of understanding. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the mutual goal of promoting wind energy and advancing renewable energy solutions globally and was sealed by the signatures of both association leaders – SAWEA’s chief executive officer, Niveshen Govender and BWE’s managing director, Wolfram Axthelm.
“Our shared vision is to foster a thriving wind energy industry that contributes to social, environmental, and economic security. This MoU will enable us to build a robust framework for collaboration, driving progress in the renewable energy sector, in particular wind energy,” says Govender.
Working together under this MoU, the South African and German markets are expected to attract investment and facilitate knowledge exchange, with South Africa learning from Germany’s extensive experience in wind energy technology and infrastructure.
“Together, we aim to make substantial strides towards a sustainable energy future to reinforce our commitment to the South African wind energy market. On the back of our existing national diplomatic ties, this is one of the ways that further supports the energy transition and our commitment to climate-friendly energy production in Germany and beyond,” adds Axthelm.
By joining forces, BWE and SAWEA are committed to:
- Capacity development: Enhancing association management and operational structures.
- Strategic collaboration: Jointly organising events, disseminating information, and conducting research.
- Operational assistance: Addressing industry issues and establishing bi-monthly knowledge exchange meetings.
- Technical support: Providing expertise and support for initiatives and conferences like Windaba Conference & Exhibition or WindEnergy Hamburg.
- Dual membership: Offering a 10% membership fee discount for members in good standing on a secondary membership with either SAWEA or BWE.
About SAWEA
Founded in 1998, the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA) stands as a leading advocate for the wind energy sector in South Africa. As a non-profit organisation, SAWEA promotes the advancement of sustainable energy practices, policies, and investment in South Africa, while advocating for socio-economic development and energy transformation through wind power.
SAWEA is dedicated to fulfilling its purpose as a dynamic force within the wind industry with a primary focus on supporting its members and advancing the integration of wind energy onto the grid. Central to SAWEA’s strategic priorities is the active engagement of members on industry matters and the strategic aligning with stakeholders for focused collaboration to foster a just energy transition in South Africa.
About BWE
The German Wind Energy Association (BWE) is one of the largest associations in the world in the renewable energy sector, boasting 20,000 members and playing a major role in Germany’s energy transition process. Since its founding in 1996, BWE has been increasingly successful in advising political decision makers and efficiently expanding wind power in Germany. BWE’s goal is to promote the advantages of wind energy as a key technology on the way to an energy system based on 100 percent renewable energies.
Since climate and energy policy decisions are more and more influenced by international politics, BWE works closely together with European and international associations, such as the European Wind Energy Association (WindEurope), the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC) and the World Wind Energy Association (WWEA).
