Globeleq, a leading independent power company in Africa and the majority partner in the Ikamva Consortium, is involved in six of the solar photovoltaic (PV) projects and six of the wind energy projects among the 25 Preferred Bidder Projects recently announced by South Africa’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy, Gwede Mantashe, in the Fifth Bid Window of the country’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP).
Klipheuwel Wind Farm is one of the already operational renewable energy projects in South Africa, in which Globeleq is a partner.
These 12 projects will deliver 1 274 MW of generation capacity, adding to Globeleq's nine majority owned and operated wind and solar assets in Southern Africa, which have a total capacity of 450 MW.
The Ikamva Consortium includes, alongside Globeleq, Mainstream Renewable Power, Africa Rainbow Energy & Power (AREP) and H1 Holdings, constituting more than 45 % black ownership.
Commenting on the announcement of the BW5 Preferred Bidder Projects, Globeleq CEO, Mike Scholey, said: “We are thrilled with the news. Our strong track record in delivering and operating quality power projects and the expertise of all our consortium partners, sees us playing a significant role in the country's path to a cleaner energy future."
Jonathan Hoffman, Chief Development Officer for Globeleq and based in Cape Town, added: “The Ikamva Consortium assembled world class local and international partners to achieve a competitive position for these projects. We focused on delivering a competitive tariff and significant shareholding and participation by BEE groups. With Globeleq's already operational wind and solar projects and these new projects in South Africa, we continue to support the government's plan for a sustainable energy future and create shared value for all stakeholders."
The projects awarded include three wind projects in the Northern Cape, two wind projects in the Western Cape and the first wind project in KwaZulu-Natal. The solar projects are all located in the Free State which has not yet seen any renewable projects constructed as part of the REIPPP Programme.
Globeleq is proud of its record of building strong in-country teams and supporting the communities near its plants – implementing innovative socio-economic, enterprise and skills development initiatives. In addition, job opportunities during development and construction will be focused on supporting local communities and once the plants come online, Globeleq South Africa's existing team of 82 permanent staff is expected to increase by a further 50 positions. Globeleq will manage operations and maintenance for the solar facilities and balance of plant services for the wind farms.
For more information visit: www.globeleq.com
