Eskom Palmiet Visitors Centre

The Eskom Palmiet Visitors Centre offers the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of hydroelectricity and discover the story behind the "switch" that turns on your lights and powers commerce and industry.

Hydroelectric power stations can respond rapidly to increases in demand for electricity.
Pumped storage hydroelectric schemes are used where water resources are scarce.
Water that has been used to generate electricity, is pumped back to a storage reservoir so that it can be used again.

Palmiet has a dual role. Not only does it generate 400 MW of peaking power into the Eskom National Grid, it is also part of an inter-catchment water project that transfers much needed water to Cape Town.

The Palmiet Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Scheme is regarded as a forerunner in environmental engineering.
It is located in the scenic and ecologically sensitive heart of the Cape Fynbos Plant Kingdom.

In 1998 international recognition was given when UNESCO registered the area as the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, the first such reserve in South Africa.

What does Palmiet pumped storage scheme offer:

Visitors centre:
- Interactive models and informative displays demonstrating how electricity is generated.
- Magnificent backlit photographs showcasing the unique fynbos plant kingdom and Eskom?s efforts to protect the environment.
- A well equipped auditorium where knowledgeable and experienced presenters introduce visitors to Eskom, the Generation Division and the power generating process at Palmiet Power Station.

Power station and site:
- Guided tours of the power station where the two pump/turbines have been installed 25 storeys underground
- Engineering features including the 60 m high surge tank ? one of the largest in the world.
- A tour of the rehabilitated fynbos areas which earned Palmiet recognition as a forerunner in environmental engineering.

Contact Details:

t: +27 21 8592690
http://www.eskom.co.za/c/article/80/what-does-palmiet-pumped-storage-scheme-offer/

Hours:

Mon ? Thurs: 08:00 ? 16:30
Friday: 08:00 - 12:00
Closed on Public Holidays
Tours are by appointment only