Planned Near Hopefield – Public Participation Open Until April 23 – 2025
CCN REPORTING
Hopefield:- A large-scale solar energy development, spearheaded by Phelan Green Energy through Cullisol Holdings.
This massive project is proposed just outside Hopefield, on multiple farm portions, and the public now has limited time to raise their voices.
According to an official notice published by the Saldanha Bay Municipality, the project aims to install millions of photovoltaic panels over several phases on portions of Farm 167, Farm 166, Farm 196, and Farm 315, with infrastructure stretching across areas as large as 570 hectares in total. The development includes battery storage zones (up to 48 hectares), substations, roads, truck loading areas along the MR234, and construction camps.
A Breakdown of the Project:
Phase 1: Over 570,000 solar panels and construction near the MR234
Phase 2: More than 2.28 million solar panels
Phase 3: An additional 1.06 million panels and further infrastructure
Environmental & Community Concerns:
Locals have begun questioning whether the broader Hopefield community was properly consulted or even informed. Concerns include possible environmental impact, increased traffic, and the scale of land transformation – particularly with solar panel areas bordering residential and farming zones.
Public Participation Deadline 23 April 2025
Community members are urged to view full details on the Saldanha Bay Municipality’s website, at https://sbm.gov.za or submit written objections or comments to the Municipal Manager at Private Bag X12, Vredenburg, or via email: sbm@sbm.gov.za. Submissions must clearly state the reference number, full name, contact details, and interest in the matter.
As the future of Hopefield’s outskirts faces a potential transformation, residents are reminded – silence is consent.
