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In a significant boost for the local green economy, Modulêr Electrical Assemblies, a small and medium-sized enterprise (SMME) specializing in electrical panel components, has officially opened a larger facility in the Atlantis Special Economic Zone (ASEZ). The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by the City’s Mayoral Committee Member, Alderman James Vos, earlier this week.
The company’s new site spans 4,000m², a considerable expansion from its original 700m² when it launched just two years ago. This growth highlights the surge in investments within the green economy sector. Modulêr produces components utilized in solar parks, wind farms, and data centers, with its products already featured in Cape Town data centers.
“The company’s growth signifies the incredible surge in green economy investments,” said Alderman Vos. “Modulêr operates in the Atlantis SEZ, for which the City provided land, and their electrical panels are part of the specifications for our upcoming 7 MW solar plant, integral to the City’s energy security plan. This expansion is set to contribute around R105 million to the economy over the next five years.”
Modulêr’s expansion reflects a broader trend toward renewable energy, with investments in this sector continuing to rise. A recent UN-backed report noted that investments in energy transition technologies generate three times as many jobs per US$1 million compared to fossil fuels.
Matthew Cullinan, CEO of the Atlantis Special Economic Zone Company, highlighted the benefits of the ASEZ, including government support and resilient green infrastructure. “As a SEZ, we are developing clusters in renewable energy and agribusiness value chains. We welcome Modulêr’s expansion and commit ongoing support to them and other investors in the ASEZ,” said Cullinan.
Alderman Vos emphasized the significance of Atlantis as a manufacturing hub, noting that over 60% of the metro’s manufacturing activities occur in the Atlantis Industrial area, covering approximately 450,000sqm of floor space.
The City’s Investment Facilitation Branch (IFB) has played a crucial role in supporting businesses in Atlantis. Companies like Hisense, which manufactures appliances in the area, have expanded their operations, creating more job opportunities for residents.
In recognition of the region’s economic potential, the IFB operates a specialized Atlantis Investment Facilitation Office, which offers a range of support services to attract investors. These services include fast-tracking building plan applications, providing financial incentives, and offering development programmes for small businesses.
“We are committed to overseeing municipal service delivery to support further investment in the area,” said Atlantis Subcouncil Chairman, Councillor Allister Lightburn. “Our development programmes help small businesses capitalize on new opportunities, preparing them for tendering and smart procurement.”
The Atlantis SEZ has already attracted over R800 million in investments and created hundreds of jobs, with projections indicating that private-sector investment could reach R3 billion over the next five years. This expansion underscores the region’s growing importance in the transition to renewable energy and economic development. |
