JUWI, one of the leading developers in the sector, announced an investment of ZAR 6 billion to build three solar power plants in South Africa. These projects, totaling 340 MW, aim to address the energy needs of major industrial companies, including Glencore, Teraco, Sasol, and Air Liquide. These projects will enable these companies to secure their energy supply and reduce their dependence on the public grid.
Projects designed to meet operational needs
The beneficiary companies have structured their energy strategy around these power plants. Teraco Data Centres, the largest data center operator on the continent, will operate a 120 MW solar installation in the Free State province. The goal is to ensure energy availability necessary for the growth of its digital activities, essential for its local and international clients.
Sasol and Air Liquide have partnered with JUWI to develop a 120 MW project in collaboration with TotalEnergies, Mulilo, and Reatile Group. These companies aim to control energy costs while strengthening the energy security essential to their chemical production chains.
Finally, Glencore, a major player in the mining industry, will receive 100 MW to support the energy needs of its ferrochrome smelters. This project, carried out in partnership with Pele Green Energy, directly addresses the growing energy needs of its facilities.
A strategic context for the private sector
These initiatives take place in a context where large South African companies are seeking solutions to the energy instability impacting their competitiveness. Recent regulatory changes, such as the amendment to the Electricity Regulation Act, have enabled the acceleration of private energy projects in South Africa.
The recently updated Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) has set ambitious targets to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy capacities. However, achieving these goals largely depends on private investments, which complement public initiatives. The new facilities developed by JUWI reflect this trend, with a focus on autonomous projects tailored to specific industrial needs.
