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High Commissioner visits Aberthaw power station

Tuesday, 22 July 2025 at 12:31

By Gareth Joy X @lookoutwales2

CCR Energy

South Africa's High Commissioner to the UK has paid a special VIP visit to the former Aberthaw power station.

Jeremiah Nyamane Mamabolo's visit was held as part of an international mission, marking a net-zero partnership between the two countries.

A green energy hub has been earmarked for the site of the former coal-powered station, which was bought three years ago by the Cardiff Capital Region - a group of Welsh local councils - for £8 million.

The High Commissioner was welcomed by the UK2070 Commission taskforce - a clean energy partnership linking the Cardiff and Teesside areas with Komati in the Mpumalanga region of South Africa.

Mr Mamabolo said: "It is a privilege to witness the transformative progress underway at Aberthaw."

"We hold in high regard the work of the UK2070 commission taskforce, not only in advancing net-zero objectives but also in promoting a people-and-place-centred approach to development."

"This partnership exemplifies how international cooperation can support inclusive growth, shared prosperity and sustainable communities across both South Africa and the United Kingdom."

According to CCR Energy, the Aberthaw visit reinforced growing co-operation between regional leaders in the UK and South Africa on shared challenges such as industrial decarbonisation.

Prof. Michael Henson, chair of the UK20270 Taskforce programme, said: "High Commissioner Mamabolo's visit underscores the Taskforce's commitment to delivering international collaboration rooted in place."

"Aberthaw demonstrates how strategic repurposing, led by regional innovation and backed by global diplomacy, can unlock real change."

Baroness Wilcox of Newport added: "As an advocate for Wales and the people of Wales, I was proud to join this important visit."

"Aberthaw stands as a powerful example of local ambition connected to global opportunity. This international partnership is beyond invaluable - for our communities today, and for future generations across both nations."

Talks were held during the visit on the co-design of virtual net-zero centres in the three areas, as well as joint funding opportunities, ongoing engagement and academic collaboration.

CCR Energy chair Cllr Bronwen Brooks, who is also the deputy leader of Vale of Glamorgan Council, said: "It was a privilege to welcome High Commissioner Mamabolo to Aberthaw, a site at the centre of our region's clean energy ambitions."

"His visit highlights the strength of our growing international partnerships. We thank the UK2070 Commission and Baroness Wilcox for their continued support, and look forward to future collaboration with South Africa and Teesside - driving innovation, opportunity, and a just transition for our communities."

Cardiff Capital Region chair Cllr Mary Ann Brocklesby added: "Partnerships are at the heart of our work here at CCR. We value this significant international collaboration, as we share the common mission to deliver transformational clean energy projects that will shape our regions, grow our economies, and create a future that is inclusive and prosperous for generations to come."

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