HARNESSING THE KALAHARI SUN

July 2021, Konkoonsies Solar Power.

Under the watchful eye of John Kordom, Site Manager at Konkoonsies Solar Power, this renewable energy solar plant, close to Pofadder, harnesses the abundant Kalahari sun to supply enough clean electrical energy, to meet the needs of almost 5 000 households each year.

Kordom has been working at this solar plant since 2015, a year after it was first constructed, and remains enthusiastic about playing his role in helping to generate power for his fellow South Africans. His role is to ensure that Operations and Maintenance of the power plant is carried out in a safe manner.

“Health And Safety Policies and Procedures are key to my job, and as the site manager it is also my responsibility to ensure proper handling of equipment in order to avoid damage and possible injury to workers,” said Kordom.

Born and bred in Kakamas, just an hour from Konkoonsies Solar Power, he feels at home in the area and pleased that he has been able to put his passion for the technical field to good use.

“I always had a passion for the Technical field and developed a curiosity to learn more about the Solar Industry when I started my studies back in 2010. Plus, I believe that it helps to develop a greener environment, and solar power is a reliable source of energy, considering the abundance of sun in this area,” he added.

Now in its seventh year of operation, Konkoonsies Solar Power also works to make a positive impact on the surrounding communities of Pofadder, Pella and Onseepkans.  Kordom highlights various job opportunities and development programmes, such as the bursary programme for tertiary education as some of the most impactful interventions.