Power generation company Globeleq has completed two 100MW photovoltaic (PV) solar power facilities in Northern Cape, South Africa
The 50MW PV De Aar Solar Power and 50MW PV Droogfontein Solar Power have been generating clean power since their connection to the national grid in 2013, said Globeleq.
Mikael Karlsson, CEO of Globeleq, said, “Infrastructure projects like these boost local economies through delivery of clean and reliable electricity, creation of jobs and development of skills that will increasingly be in demand as the industry grows. The projects are also an important contribution to the country's energy mix.”
The two power plants drew heavily from surrounding communities to gain manpower, and now that the plants are functional, a percentage of project revenues will be reinvested in the local community through socio-economic and enterprise development programmes, Globeleq added.
The company is also currently working on another solar plant in Eastern Cape. The 138MW Jeffreys Bays Wind Farm is part of the South African government’s Renewable Energy IPP Procurement Program.
Mark Pickering, MD of Globeleq South Africa, said, “These plants are part of the first wave of private power generation to be built in the country in several decades. As such, they herald the dawn of a new era. Solar power is truly a win-win solution that benefits the local community, the national economy and global environment.”
Equity firms are supporting renewable energy projects in a big way in the nation too. Private equity firm Actis, which has US$6.5bn of funds under management, owns Globeleq and favour clean energy projects.
Torbjorn Caesar, partner and co-head of energy for Actis, said, “The emerging markets are providing an increasingly attractive environment for energy investors as policy support continues to encourage investment in the sector, particularly in renewables. Actis will continue to provide shareholder support to Globeleq and other renewable initiatives in our target regions.”
