Mulilo Secures Financial Close For 75MW Solar Plant In Partnership With Air Products South Africa

Mulilo has officially secured Financial Close for its Ukuqala Solar Project, situated near De Aar in the Northern Cape. This marks the company’s 6th project to close in 2024, adding 75 MWAC (105 MWDC) to its growing pipeline. The name “Ukuqala,” meaning “the first” or “the beginning,” reflects the significance of this project, as it is the first one Mulilo is delivering under its integrated business model. Mulilo’s multi-disciplinary team will oversee the construction, asset management, and operations & maintenance services for the Ukuqala Solar Project. This project is notable as the first renewable energy facility to power Air Products’ Air Separation Units across South Africa, with electricity being wheeled to multiple locations.

Ukuqala Solar will also be one of four Mulilo projects linked to the Kestrel Main Transmission Substation, which is currently under construction. Strategically located near other Mulilo facilities, the plant has a 105 MWDC installed capacity and can deliver a maximum output of 75 MWAC, thanks to its optimized design with a high DC/AC ratio. This design helps the plant reach its peak output earlier and maintain it for a longer period, generating about 248 GWh of electricity annually.

Jan Fourie, CEO at Mulilo, said in a statement, “Ukuqala Solar is the sixth project closed by our team this year and our first project as lead developer. It demonstrates our ability to develop bespoke projects for the private sector and deliver on our integrated business model.”

Mulilo, with over 420 MW of operational wind and solar projects and more than 15 years of experience in South Africa, remains a leader in the country’s shift towards a more sustainable future. The Ukuqala project was made possible with debt financing from Nedbank, SBSA, and ABSA. The project also benefited from the dedicated support of advisors, including Peppertree Capital, ENS, ABL, Bowmans, and Arup, whose contributions were crucial in achieving Financial Close. As the renewable energy sector in South Africa continues to grow, Mulilo is well-positioned to keep delivering innovative projects that meet local industry demands and contribute to global sustainability goals.