Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has appointed Amulet Group Consortium as the preferred bidder to construct and operate its first 20 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) plant at the Port of Richards Bay. This initiative is part of TNPA’s Renewable Energy Purchase programme, aimed at decarbonizing port operations across South Africa’s eight commercial seaports.
The 20 MW solar plant is a significant step towards TNPA’s goal of installing 100 MW of renewable energy. This move aligns with South Africa’s commitment to achieving a net-zero emission economy by 2050. Transnet is dedicated to transitioning to low-carbon operations to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The selection of Amulet Group Consortium followed a Request for Proposals procurement process initiated in May 2023. The consortium, comprising Amulet Group and LTM Energy Group, will design, construct, test, commission, operate, and maintain the solar PV plant with a battery energy system at the Port of Richards Bay for seven years.
“The introduction of a renewable energy solution in the port system will enable the reduction of carbon emissions and greenhouse gas emissions from coal-generated electricity. It will further provide a cost-effective and reliable energy supply to the port and its users,” said Moshe Motlohi, TNPA Managing Executive for the Eastern Region ports.
Amulet Group Consortium brings extensive experience in the energy sector, having developed gas-insulated substations up to 765KV, constructed power transmission lines, built solar farms up to 1GW, and installed automation and control panels for major corporations in South Africa.
The design and construction of the solar PV plant are scheduled to begin in June 2024, with the plant expected to be operational by 31 May 2026.
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 of South Africa appoints Amulet Group Consortium to build and operate a 20 MW solar plant at Richards Bay Port, advancing the nation's renewable energy goals.){kind=link}