UAE-Based AMEA Power Secures Two Major BESS Projects in South Africa

AMEA Power, a leading renewable energy developer based in the United Arab Emirates, has secured two significant battery energy storage system (BESS) projects in South Africa.

The Gainfar and Boitekong projects, each with a capacity exceeding 300MW, will provide essential power and ancillary services to the national grid. These projects aim to address the frequent blackouts and load-shedding challenges faced by the country.

Strategic Location and Impact
Both projects are located in South Africa’s North West Province and were awarded under Bid Window 2 of the Battery Energy Storage Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, managed by the Department of Electricity and Energy.

The Gainfar project will connect to the Ngwedi substation, while the Boitekong project will link to the Marang substation. Both projects will supply power to Eskom, the country’s public electricity utility, under 15-year power purchase agreements.

Driving South Africa’s Renewable Energy Goals
Once operational, the energy storage systems will provide reliable backup power, stabilize the grid, and support South Africa’s renewable energy transition. This aligns with the country’s efforts to enhance energy security and reduce dependence on non-renewable sources.

AMEA Power previously expanded its presence in South Africa with the 120MW Doornhoek solar project, awarded in December 2022 during Bid Window 6 of the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme.

Leadership Perspective
Commenting on the achievement, Hussain Al Nowais, Chairman of AMEA Power, said:
“This achievement marks a major milestone for AMEA Power as we continue to expand our footprint in South Africa, a key market for us.

“These projects represent our first successful awards of BESS projects through a competitive bidding process and underscore our commitment to providing sustainable, resilient, and cost-effective energy solutions.

“We are proud to support South Africa’s energy transition, enhance Eskom’s grid reliability, and drive economic growth in the region. With our expanding portfolio, including the 120MW Doornhoek Solar PV project, and our regional office in Johannesburg, we are dedicated to contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for South Africa.”

Commitment to Innovation
These BESS projects highlight AMEA Power’s growing contribution to South Africa’s energy landscape. By integrating advanced energy storage systems, the company reinforces its commitment to innovation and sustainability in renewable energy development.