Phase 1 of the construction of SolarAfrica Energy’s project began this week.
The development known as the SunCentral project, amounts to about R5 billion.
During a breaking ground ceremony, David McDonald, CEO of SolarAfrica Energy, said
“a project of this magnitude wouldn’t have been possible without the power of partnerships. Over the past decade, Eskom has found new and tangible ways of making wheeling a reality in South Africa. Their dedication to partnering with the private sector is proof of their commitment to address South Africa’s power generation struggles.”
Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) firms Proconics and Sinohydro are subcontractors to the project. Proconics will install SunCentral’s Main Transmission Substation (MTS) while Sinohydro will be responsible for the installation of more than 500 000 solar panels.
SunCentral will provide power on a one-to-many basis, meaning more South African businesses can access cheaper, cleaner energy via wheeling.
The power generated at SunCentral is 100% green and comes at a tariff of up to 50% cheaper than utility power.
Businesses that are interested in accessing this power can sign a Virtual Power Purchase Agreement with SolarAfrica.
The project will also supply electricity outside South Africa, to include wheeling projects in East and West Africa, Kenya and Nigeria.
Organisations like Vantage Data Centers, ATTACQ and Enpower Trading have already signed up for Phase 1 of the project.
Picture: Supplied