Solar panel and battery installation at Hatch’s Johannesburg office reduces emissions, costs, and reliance on diesel power

Hatch’s Johannesburg office has implemented a solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage system to reduce energy costs, lower emissions, and eliminate reliance on diesel backup power. The project started in 2023 and was completed on 19 April 2024 in response to ongoing load shedding and rising energy costs.

Previously, the office relied on diesel generators to maintain operations during power outages. While effective, this approach was costly and contributed significantly to carbon emissions. The new solar and battery system replaces this dependency with a cleaner and more efficient alternative.

The solar backup system consists of a 1 MVA inverter, an 800 kWh lithium battery, and 912 solar panels rated at 465 Wp each, providing a total installed capacity of 424 kWp. The system is designed to support the building’s average load demand of 480 kW. During the day, supported by solar generation, the system can carry the building’s electrical load for up to four hours, which is sufficient for most load shedding events. Additional solar panels could not be installed due to space constraints on the building’s roof.

The installation has delivered measurable results. On average, the system saves approximately R110,000 per month in energy costs and reduces carbon emissions by around 64 tonnes of CO₂ per month. It also enables the office to operate without starting diesel generators during most grid outages. Currently, the battery is being used for peak shaving, delivering additional monthly savings on maximum demand charges.

“This project started as a response to power reliability challenges,” says Herman Potgieter, electrical engineering specialist. “It has reduced our reliance on grid electricity and removed the need for diesel generation in many instances.”

Despite its success, the project was not without challenges. The system had to be integrated with existing electrical boards and commissioned over a weekend to avoid disrupting normal business operations. Coordination with multiple stakeholders and securing municipal approvals also required careful planning and engagement.

While effective in Johannesburg, the solution is shaped by environmental conditions. South Africa’s consistent sunlight supports strong solar generation throughout the year, whereas regions with less favourable weather and shorter daylight hours may not achieve the same results.

“The success of solar depends on the environment,” adds Herman. “South Africa’s sunlight makes this solution practical here, but it would not deliver the same results in regions with shorter summers.”

Building on this progress, Hatch is advancing a second initiative at the Johannesburg office. An electric vehicle (EV) charging project is currently in the pipeline to support employees and encourage lower carbon transport options.

This installation demonstrates a targeted approach to sustainability, reducing emissions, improving energy efficiency, and lowering costs through a solution aligned with environmental conditions.

For more information, please contact:
Lindsay Janca
Global Director, Public Relations
Tel: +1 905 403 4199
Email: media@hatch.com

About Hatch

Hatch is a global engineering, project delivery, and professional services firm. Whatever our clients envision, our teams can design and build. With more than seven decades of business and technical experience in the mining, energy, and infrastructure sectors, Hatch responds with solutions that are smarter, more efficient, and innovative. Drawing on 11,000 staff across more than 150 countries, Hatch challenges the status quo to create positive change for clients, employees, and communities.

Find out more at www.hatch.com/About-Us