ENGIE and Pele Green Energy begin construction of the Grootspruit photovoltaic power plant, marking an important step in South Africa’s energy transition.
The project is part of two solar power plants, the second of which will be located in Graspan in the Northern Cape.
These plants aim to strengthen the South African power grid, each providing 75 MW of clean energy by the end of 2025.
Mo Hoosen, CEO and Managing Director of Renewable Energies for Asia, Middle East and Africa at ENGIE, emphasizes the importance of cooperation in these projects: “With over 15 years of presence in South Africa and more than 1.6 GW of assets in operation, the realization of projects of this scale requires close collaboration with partners like Pele Green Energy and the local authorities”.
Collaboration and Expertise
Ronald Chindeka, Investment Manager at Pele Green Energy, emphasizes the socio-economic impact of these projects.
We are proud of these initiatives, not only for their energy production, but also for the development they bring to local communities and the country,” he says.
Aurex and Ablon, companies renowned for their expertise in the sector, have been selected as the main contractors for the construction of Grootspruit.
Stuart Kent, CEO of Aurex Constructors, says: “This project underlines our commitment to providing sustainable solutions to South Africa’s energy challenges”.
Lizelle Pike, Contracts Manager at Ablon, adds: “As a local company for 24 years, we are honored to be involved in this project, which is crucial to our country’s energy future.
Environmental impact
The Grootspruit and Graspan power plants are expected to reduce South Africa’s CO2 emissions by 100,000 tonnes a year, while meeting the electricity needs of 80,000 households.
This project illustrates ENGIE and Pele Green Energy’s commitment to a sustainable energy transition.
These initiatives aim to strengthen South Africa’s energy infrastructure, offering sustainable solutions and helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Collaboration with local and international partners demonstrates the importance of an integrated approach to today’s energy challenges.
The Grootspruit and Graspan projects are part of an overall strategy to promote renewable energies in South Africa, in line with national objectives to reduce carbon emissions and transition to a green economy.
