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| Blue Planet Prize >> Information >> Palmiet Pumped Storage Scheme |
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The 400 MW Palmiet pumped-storage scheme, near Cape Town, South Africa, was found to demonstrate excellence in relation to the technical, environmental and economic aspects. Palmiet had been commissioned in 1988 by the energy company Eskom and South Africa's Department of Water Affairs and Forestry. |
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The partnership enabled the optimization of the use of water: first, for pumped storage operation to provide system stability for the South African electricity network, and, second, for the provision of extra water supply for the Cape Town area. |
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In particular, the scheme was noted for its contribution to the protection and management of the Cape Floral Kingdom, which includes the unique Fynbos flora, in the immediate area. During the implementation phase, extraordinary procedures were applied to minimize the impact of the construction work. Since the commissioning, great care for the local environment continues to be a |
| high priority, for example, by the monitoring and action to prevent the ingress of non-native fauna and flora. |
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"The fact that the area, including that of the Palmiet scheme, has subsequently been designated as a UNESCO biosphere, The Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, is testament to the positive role hydropower can play even within the most environmentally sensitive zones", said Dr Helen Locher of Australia (one of the members of the IHA inspection team). |
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