ENGIE, a leading independent power producer in South Africa, has broken ground to begin the construction of the Grootspruit solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in the Free State. The plant, which will operate at a 75 MW contracted capacity, will be built and operated by ENGIE in partnership with Pele Green Energy.
Breaking ground for the Grootspruit solar PV plant in the Free State.
Grootspruit is one of two PV power plants ENGIE is currently building in the country. This reflects its commitment to transitioning operations to a net zero environment. The other plant, the Graspan solar PV plant, will be built in the Northern Cape. Both plants are part of Bid Window 5 of the REIPPPP, having been selected as preferred bidders in that round, and both are expected to be commissioned by the end of 2025. Graspan will also contribute 75 MW to strengthening the South African electricity grid.
“We are focused on contributing to a more resilient energy supply system in South Africa. Through our presence in the country over more than 15 years and with more than 1.6 GW of multiple assets currently in operation, we know that working on such a significant project requires extensive collaboration with partners like Pele Green Energy and the Free State Provincial Government, as well as engineers, builders, contractors, and other key role players. ENGIE takes pride in the significant investment it is making to deliver valuable assets which will serve South Africa once these plants are completed next year,” said Mo Hoosen, ENGIE South Africa CEO and Managing Director, Renewables for Asia, Middle East & Africa.
Ronald Chindeka, Head - Investment and Funding at Pele Green Energy said too, "We are proud of these projects because of the power they will generate and the structural development they will bring to the local communities and the country as a whole. We are delighted to collaborate with ENGIE, a company dedicated to a genuine partnership in realising these projects.”
Aurex and Ablon have been selected as the preferred contractors for the Grootspruit project. They bring to it a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in the industry.
“The awarding of the design and construction of the Grootspruit Solar Project to Aurex Constructors endorses our commitment to providing sustainable solutions to South Africa’s energy challenges,” said Stuart Kent, CEO of Aurex Constructors. “Our involvement in this landmark project reflects our dedication to supporting a just energy transition, creating job opportunities, and promoting skills development in the local community.”
Lizelle Pike, Ablon Contracts Manager, said: “As Ablon Construction, a company deeply rooted in South Africa since it was established 24 years ago, we are honoured and excited to be part of the groundbreaking ceremony for the Grootspruit PV Solar Farm. Bringing together all the stakeholders, this is a significant step towards a successful project which will contribute to South Africa’s clean energy goals.”
Together, the two 75 MW solar PV plants are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in South Africa by 100 000 tonnes of CO2 per year and will contribute to meeting the electricity needs of about 80 000 South African households.
For more information visit: https://www.engie-africa.com/
