ENGIE, South Africa’s leading independent power producer, is pleased to announce that it has broken ground on the construction of the Grootspruit solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in the Free State. The plant, to operate at a 75 MW contracted capacity, will be built and operated by ENGIE in partnership with Pele Green Energy.
Grootspruit is one of two PV power plants ENGIE will be 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 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 helping to contribute to a more resilient energy landscape in South Africa. Our more than 15 years presence in the country 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 not to mention numerous engineers, builders, contractors, and the like. ENGIE takes great pride in this significant investment it is making to deliver invaluable assets for 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.
“We are proud of these projects not only because of the power they will generate but also the structural development they will bring to the local communities and the country as a whole,” said Ronald Chindeka, Head – Investment and Funding at Pele Green Energy. “We are delighted to collaborate with ENGIE, who are dedicated to a genuine partnership in realising these projects.”
Aurex and Ablon have been selected as the preferred contractors for this project. They bring a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in the industry.
“Aurex Constructors’ award of the design and construction of the Grootspruit Solar Project reaffirms our commitment to providing sustainable solutions to South Africa’s energy challenges,” said Stuart Kent, CEO of Aurex Constructors. “This landmark project underpins our dedication to supporting a just energy transition, creating job opportunities, and promoting skills development in the local community.”
“As Ablon Construction, a company deeply rooted in the local community for the past 24 years, we are honoured and excited to be part of the groundbreaking ceremony for the Grootspruit PV Solar Farm. This collaboration between all stakeholders is a significant step toward a successful project that will contribute to South Africa’s clean energy goals,” said Lizelle Pike, Ablon Contracts Manager.
Together, the plants are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in South Africa by 100 000 tons of CO2 per year and will contribute to meeting the electricity needs of approximately 80 000 South African households.
