Cerebos has signed a deal with the Coega Development Corporation (Coega), to extend its operations to the tune of R17 million.
This strategic 10- year investment into the adjacent Lension Facility in Zone 7, marks a key moment for the SEZ, effectively doubling Cerebos’s operational footprint.
The expansion not only enhances the production of their renowned table salt but also introduces a range of purified bottled water and seasonings, reinforcing Cerebos’s commitment to innovation and quality in the region.
John Drinkwater, Cerebos Managing Director, said the strategic diversification aims to maximize the value of its seawater extraction and improve overall operating efficiencies.
“Our vision is to transform beyond being just a salt brand. Importantly, we aim to minimize wastage to the utmost extent and ensure that every drop of seawater extracted to produce our brand’s renowned table salt is utilized to the fullest.
We extract the salt from sea water using pure vacuum dry desalination technology and are left with water, which we purify and bottle under the ‘Halo’ brand.”
Drinkwater said Cerebos has also partnered with rigid plastics manufacturer in the new facility, to produce salt flasks and Halo water bottles.
“This partnership reduces logistics costs of transporting empty packaging. Because desalination is an energy-intensive activity, we have also invested in 2.6MW of solar generation on the land next to the plant and 4 MWh of Hubble Energy battery storage. The intention is to progress to 100% green energy” said Drinkwater.
Cerebos’ desalination plant will also supply demineralised water to the anticipated Hive Hydrogen project earmarked for Zone 7.
Asanda Xawuka, Coega’s Executive Manager for Business Development, said Cerebos’ dedication to environmentally conscious practices, technological innovation and efficient production methods have garnered praise.
“Cerebos’ presence in the Coega SEZ has created much-needed employment in the region while simultaneously prioritising environmental stewardship and value chain efficiency through improvements in the use of technology. We look forward to supporting their successful expansion, and with it, more opportunities to reduce environmental impact and maximise social impact” she said.