SOUTH AFRICA – Exxaro Resources, a diversified mining and renewable energy solutions company in South Africa, has commenced construction on the 68MW Lephalale Solar Project (LSP) in the Limpopo province through its wholly owned subsidiary, Cennergi.
The project’s construction was announced last week during a sod-turning ceremony. This solar energy power plant, estimated at an investment of R1.56 billion, will function as a behind-the-meter power facility.
Once operational, the power plant will supply energy to Exxaro’s Grootegeluk Mine. It marks a pivotal step in bolstering the energy security of the Grootegeluk Mine and the broader Lephalale community, contributing to the company’s efforts in reducing carbon emissions and improving energy cost efficiency.
“Our vision extends beyond financial gain; we are committed to environmental stewardship in our operational areas,” noted Leon Groenewald, Managing Director of Energy at Exxaro.
“Actively engaging with the local community, during peak construction, we plan to employ 300 to 400 individuals, with a strong focus on sourcing local talent. This endeavor will significantly bolster economic growth in this region.”
The Lephalale Solar Project (LSP) is projected to generate approximately 176 Gigawatt hours of clean energy annually and is designed to curtail emissions for 25 years from its commissioning.
Socio-economic development for Limpopo communities
The solar plant will occupy 236 hectares of land, situated around 25km west of Lephalale in Limpopo, close to Marapong and Eskom’s Matimba power station.
Limpopo Premier, Mr. Chupu Stanley Mathabatha, welcomed Exxaro’s commitment through the Lephalale Solar Project, especially acknowledging the percentage of revenue that will aid in the socio-economic upliftment of local communities as part of the company’s corporate social responsibility.
“We have witnessed the journey from the inception of plans to develop wind farms in 2009, the participation in the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, and finally, the incorporation of Cennergi into Exxaro. Today, we are here to witness the fulfillment of this mission,” expressed Premier Mathabatha.
“This marks our collective path in the domain of Public-Private Partnership, aimed at fostering economic growth, sustainable socio-economic development, and creating vital employment through cleaner and more sustainable renewable energy sources,” Premier Mathabatha concluded.
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