One of the country’s leading independent power producers, Engie, has started construction of the 75 MW Graspan Solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in the Northern Cape. The solar plant will be built and operated by Engie in partnership with Pele Green Energy and is the second solar PV plant to begin construction for 2024.
In July, Engie began construction on the Grootspruit solar PV plant in the Free State. Like Graspan, the Grootspruit plant will operate at 75 MW capacity when completed. The company says the two plants reflect its commitment to supporting the government in transitioning to a lower carbon economy.
Both plants are expected to be commissioned by the end of 2025.
“Together, Graspan and Grootspruit are expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 100 000 tons per year and meet the electricity needs of approximately 80 000 South African households,” says Mo Hoosen, Engie South Africa CEO and MD: Renewables for Asia, Middle East & Africa.
Pele Green Energy CEO, Gqi Raoleka, adds: “We are excited to begin this project, which marks a step forward in our commitment to sustainable development and creating lasting economic opportunities for the region. The groundbreaking today is a symbol of the progress we aim to achieve through innovation, our collaboration with Engie, and a deep respect for the environment and the local community. I am confident that Graspan will become a cornerstone of growth, bringing both immediate and long-term benefits to the people in the Hope Town municipality.”
Herman Buhrmann, renewables operations manager at Aurex Constructors, says: “We are not just building a solar plant; we are helping to build a greener future for South Africa. This project is about creating sustainable growth, providing local jobs, and empowering local small businesses. This is the inevitable outcome when we all work together towards a common goal.”
Lizelle Pike, Ablon contracts manager, adds: “Ablon Construction is proud to have long-standing ties to the Northern Cape community and is privileged to be part of the Graspan PV Solar Farm groundbreaking event. This collaboration represents a significant advancement in South Africa’s pursuit of its renewable energy targets. We look forward to working closely with all partners to ensure the successful delivery of this key project and paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.”
Over the years, Engie has invested in various solar technologies, using ever more innovative solutions such as organic photovoltaic or concentrated solar power plants – sometimes combined with energy storage. This has seen the organisation increase its solar capacity by 30% last year when compared to 2022.
“Of course, Engie’s investments in the country go beyond energy production,” says Hoosen. “The construction of Graspan and Grootspruit will result in the organisation contributing to economic development and job creation, particularly in the rural areas where the projects are located. Ultimately, we want to make a positive impact on the communities we serve.”
As one of the largest independent power producers (IPPs) in the country, Engie has a current installed capacity of 1.6 GW. An additional 425 MW is in advanced development, and the organisation has a capacity pipeline of over 4 GW.