Eastgate Shopping Centre sets record with Africa's largest Rooftop Solar Installation

Eastgate Shopping Centre in Johannesburg has taken a major step forward in sustainability by installing Africa’s largest registered rooftop solar system, set to be completed in the third quarter of 2024. This initiative reflects the mall’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility, benefitting its shoppers, the surrounding community, and the environment.

Eastgate's journey towards becoming an environmental leader began in 2020 with the commissioning of the first phase of its solar system. This initial 1 MW [AC] solar installation generated significant energy savings, reducing the mall's reliance on grid electricity. In its second phase, the mall expanded its solar capacity with an additional 5 MW [AC], bringing the total to nearly 13,675 solar panels. These panels now generate 35.04% of the mall's daily energy needs.

The solar installation covers approximately 28,100m² of rooftop space, making it Africa’s largest registered rooftop solar system, producing a total of 6 MW [AC] in solar power. This strategic investment by Liberty Two Degrees (L2D), the property owner, underscores their leadership in sustainability. Brian Unsted, L2D’s Sustainability Lead, highlighted the significance of this innovation, noting its role in achieving L2D’s Net Zero Carbon targets.

The benefits of this solar installation extend beyond energy savings. The mall's reliance on grid electricity has been significantly reduced, and an estimated reduction of 10.9 tons of CO² emissions per year has been achieved. Additionally, the installation provides more shaded parking, thanks to innovative structural solutions.

L2D’s Developments Executive, Melinda Isaacs, praised the collective effort of the property team, consultants, and tenants in achieving this milestone. Eastgate’s commitment to sustainability is further evidenced by its five-star green-star rating from the Green Building Council of South Africa in 2021. The mall also recycles over 50% of its waste, with a significant portion reclaimed for compost, and serves as a drop-off point for community waste.

Eastgate remains fully operational during load shedding, ensuring a consistent experience for its over 1 million monthly visitors across its 200+ retailers