Community Benefits
Over the 20-year lifespan of this project, the communities of De Aar, Britstown, Phillipstown, and Hanover, will directly benefit through numerous socio-economic development and enterprise development programmes.
It is estimated that circa R260 million will be invested to help address social and economic challenges, to encourage inclusiveness by empowering marginalised and vulnerable communities through the social development projects.
The four beneficiary communities represent over 43 000 households, the majority of which are concentrated in De Aar.
- De Aar – 29 989 (2011) Census
- Britstown – 5 145 (2011) Census
- Philipstown – 3 365 (2011) Census
- Hanover – 4 594 (2011) Census
Lilitha Solar is the sponsor of the Solar Capital De Aar 3 Community Trust who is governed by local trustees who serves the local community beneficiaries. The trust roles out its own community development programmes that is funded by the dividends received from its investment in Lilitha Solar.
Socio-Economic
Development Projects
Lilitha Solar’s commitment with respect to Social Responsibility are reflected in the SED programmes that are being implemented in the respective areas of social development. The Socio-Economic Development programmes have a strong focus on opportunities in quality education that is implemented through the Early Childhood Development; Family Literacy; and Bursary Programmes.
The long-term goals/outcomes for Socio-Economic Development initiatives are to increase access to educational and training opportunities, to promote self-development and encourage community participation during programmes. Ultimately equipping and encouraging community members to take ownership and create/develop sustainable community structures that operates in De Aar.
Enterprise Development Projects
The Enterprise Development Programmes focus on skill development, business funding, innovative approaches, access to market and job creation, which are key elements to develop responsible citizens and encourage economic participation.
The long-term goals/outcomes are to partner with SMME’s in the development of their local economy to achieve higher growth rates, create more job opportunities and establish a self-sustaining market.