SOLA Group Initiates Construction On 195 MW Solar PV Plant For Flexible Power Sales

Construction has begun on a new 195 MW Solar PV plant in the Free State by the SOLA Group, aiming to be the first to sell power to multiple buyers nationwide on flexible terms.

With a capital investment of R2.8 billion, SOLA holds the majority equity share, and three multinational energy users are secured as anchor buyers.

A substantial portion of the project’s capacity is available for flexible, short-term power purchase agreements, providing South African businesses access to reliable renewable energy without long-term commitments.

SOLA plans to sign interested buyers for uncontracted power from mid-2024, with delivery set for mid-2025, contributing to a more flexible and efficient electricity system in South Africa.

This project marks SOLA’s fourth utility-scale renewable wheeling initiative in the last 15 months, establishing the group as a leader in selling power to private buyers. The four projects are expected to create 1,500 jobs and generate 1.34 terawatt-hours annually, powering nearly 500,000 homes.