ENGIE Commissions 150 MW Grootspruit And Graspan Solar Projects In South Africa

ENGIE South Africa has brought two large solar power plants into commercial operation, marking an important step in the country’s renewable energy rollout. The 75 MW Grootspruit Solar PV plant in the Free State and the 75 MW Graspan Solar PV plant in the Northern Cape both achieved commercial operation this month. These projects were developed under Bid Window Five of South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme and together add 150 MW of clean electricity capacity to the national grid.

The commissioning of these two plants supports South Africa’s efforts to expand solar generation and improve energy security. ENGIE South Africa said the projects reflect strong collaboration with local partners, stakeholders, and surrounding communities. Mo Hoosen, CEO and Managing Director of ENGIE South Africa for Renewables and Batteries AMEA, said the successful delivery of Grootspruit and Graspan strengthens the country’s power supply today while also helping prepare the energy system for future growth and change.

The two solar plants are expected to make a meaningful environmental and social impact. Together, they will reduce around 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year, contributing to South Africa’s energy transition and long-term carbon neutrality goals. The clean power generated by the plants is also expected to meet the electricity needs of about 80,000 South African households, easing pressure on the national grid and supporting more reliable supply.

These achievements come at a time of growing momentum for ENGIE South Africa. The company has recently been named the preferred bidder for the Corona Solar PV project under Bid Window Seven of the REIPPPP. This indicates continued confidence in ENGIE’s ability to deliver renewable energy projects in the country. In addition, ENGIE has been pre-qualified as one of seven bidders for South Africa’s first Independent Transmission Projects procurement programme, which focuses on expanding and strengthening the transmission network.

ENGIE has highlighted the importance of developing power generation and transmission infrastructure together. According to the company, new renewable capacity can only be added at the required speed if grid infrastructure keeps pace. Participation in both generation and transmission programmes allows ENGIE to contribute across the full energy value chain.

Hoosen said the commercial operation of Grootspruit and Graspan is not the end of ENGIE’s journey in South Africa, but the beginning of a new phase. He added that the company remains committed to investing in, building, and operating energy infrastructure that supports economic growth, strengthens local communities, and delivers clean and reliable power for many years to come.