SOUTH AFRICA – Independent power producer Engie has commenced construction on the 75 MW Grootspruit solar PV power plant in the Free State, in partnership with Pele Green Energy.
This project is one of two solar power plants Engie is developing as part of Bid Window 5 of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program (REIPPPP).
The other 75 MW Graspan solar PV plant will be built in the Northern Cape. Both facilities are slated for completion by the end of 2025.
“We are committed to contributing to a more resilient energy landscape in South Africa,” says Mo Hoosen, CEO of Engie South Africa and MD of Renewables for Asia, Middle East, and Africa.
“With over 15 years of presence in the country and more than 1.6 GW of assets currently in operation, we recognize that a project of this magnitude requires extensive collaboration.
“We are proud of the significant investment we are making, which will deliver invaluable assets for South Africa.”
Ronald Chindeka, Head of Investment and Funding at Pele Green Energy, added, “We are proud of these projects, not only for the power they will generate but also for the structural development they will bring to local communities and the country.
“We are delighted to collaborate with Engie, which is dedicated to genuine partnership in realizing these projects.”
Aurex Constructors and Ablon Construction have been chosen as the preferred contractors for the Grootspruit project. Stuart Kent, CEO of Aurex, commented, “Our involvement in the design and construction of the Grootspruit solar project reaffirms our commitment to providing sustainable solutions to South Africa’s energy challenges.
“This landmark project underscores our dedication to supporting a just energy transition, creating job opportunities, and promoting skills development in the local community.”
Lizelle Pike, Contracts Manager at Ablon Construction, noted, “As a company deeply rooted in the local community for the past 24 years, we are honored and excited to be part of the Grootspruit PV solar farm.
“This collaboration between all stakeholders is a significant step toward a successful project that will contribute to South Africa’s clean energy goals.”
Together, the Grootspruit and Graspan plants are expected to reduce South Africa’s greenhouse gas emissions by 100,000 tons of CO2 annually.
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