Envision Energy signs the largest battery energy storage contract in South Africa

Envision Energy, a leading global provider of energy storage solutions, has secured a major contract with EDF Group to deliver three battery energy storage systems (BESS) in South Africa. These systems, with a total capacity of 257 MW and 1028 MWh, represent the largest battery energy storage order in the country.

These projects are part of the Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (BESIPPPP), a government initiative aimed at increasing energy storage capacity to stabilize the national power grid. The Oasis Consortium, led by EDF and its local partners Mulilo, Pele Energy Group, and Gibb-Crede, has secured three key sites: Oasis Aggeneis, Oasis Mookodi, and Oasis Nieuwehoop, located in the Northern Cape province.

A critical project for South Africa’s grid

The facilities will be equipped with comprehensive AC and DC solutions, including Envision Energy’s standard 5 MWh storage units. These systems will also integrate advanced management tools such as SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and EMS (Energy Management Systems). Envision will provide 15 years of operation and maintenance services to ensure the continuous performance of these installations.

According to Kane Xu, Senior Vice President of Envision Energy, “These projects will stabilize South Africa’s grid by optimizing load management and reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based energy sources.”

Structural benefits for the energy sector

The facilities aim to address challenges within South Africa’s grid, which is frequently congested and prone to disruptions. They will enhance the integration of renewable energy sources while supporting electricity market operations such as energy arbitrage and ancillary services. These systems are aligned with South Africa’s climate goals, including its target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Each project also incorporates a social component, with 5% of ownership allocated to local communities through a community trust, as mandated by government inclusion policies.

EDF and Envision: A strategic partnership

EDF, one of the world’s largest energy companies, continues its expansion in renewable energy and storage solutions. With a target of 60 GW of net renewable capacity by 2030, the group leverages partnerships like this to diversify its assets and technologies.

Envision Energy continues to solidify its position as a leader in energy storage. Ranked as a Tier 1 manufacturer by Bloomberg NEF in 2024, the company has more than 200 operational projects representing 15 GWh of installed capacity. Its focus on integrated technological solutions ensures maximum efficiency and safety over the long term.