Real estate investment trust Hyprop Investments has switched on a new hybrid energy system at Rosebank Mall, combining solar PV, battery storage, grid supply and generator backup. A central control platform, which was unveiled on August 12, manages the mix in real time, choosing the most efficient power source based on demand and tariff rates.
The installation includes six locally made Freedom Won MegaTower battery banks with a combined 6 MWh storage capacity linked to rooftop solar panels with an initial capacity of 1,3 MWp. Stored energy can be used on demand or shared with Rosebank Gardens next to the mall.
Three generators have been converted from diesel-only to a 70:30 blend of natural gas and diesel, supplied via Egoli Gas infrastructure. Energenic, responsible for supplying and integrating the dual-fuel generator system, reports that the upgrade cuts diesel use by more than 50%.
Power is distributed through three transformers and a new ring main unit with advanced switchgear while safety systems include fire suppression, ventilation and automated protection measures.
“The system, which is one of the largest of its kind in the retail sector, reduces pressure on the national grid during high demand hours and allows trading to continue through load-shedding interruptions,” says Rosebank Mall GM Muhammad Varachia. “It is designed for energy arbitrage charging batteries when electricity prices are low and using that power during peak tariff periods while helping to reduce the mall’s demand on the municipal grid.”
